As we approach the end of December, it’s an important time to take stock of how the past year has gone. Have you kept up with the New Year’s Resolutions you set yourself at the start of 2023? If you can yes to some or all, take time to congratulate yourself – any wins or positives should be celebrated given, as we all know, small changes can ultimately make a big difference to your physical and mental health and wellbeing. And all you must do is just keep building on them in 2024.
However, if on review, you haven’t made the inroads you really wanted to, please don’t worry or stress; plenty of people don’t quite keep up with their initial goals or intentions but with the new year just around the corner you can press the reset button and focus your attention what you can achieve in the next 12 months.
Over these last few weeks of December why not log on to the Inspire Support Hub and use our goal calendar to make plans and set targets for 2024, and also use the gratitude diary to get you into the habit of recording, in a positive way, those daily wins, whether small or large.
Support over the Holiday Period
It is also important to remember that the Christmas and New Year period can be a difficult or challenging time for some for a number of reasons such as loneliness, feelings of grief, financial worries, or family dynamics. And so, it is important to remember that Inspire’s support services remain available throughout the holiday period.
The Inspire Support Hub is a great place to start, offering the right support at the right time. People can self-refer through the Hub, over the phone or by email.
Wellbeing Calendar – Key Dates in December
Grief Awareness Week
National (UK) Grief Awareness Week took place this year from 2-8 December – and highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing grief, as a natural response to loss, openly and compassionately.
If you are aware that someone has suffered a bereavement and are struggling with what you should and shouldn’t say below are some suggested do’s and don’ts which might be of help.
Do
- Start the conversation
- Offer your condolences and ask how they are coping
- .Be caring and compassionate.
- Say: “How can I help?” (and be aware that what they need might change over time)
- Be available – that you’re there to listen or just to ‘be’ with them
Don’t
- Ignore the situation.
- Assume you know how they are feeling or that you can relate – every bereavement is unique and everyone grieves in their own way
- Give advice.
- Compare your past losses with theirs.
- Say anything that may minimise or undermine the loss.
- Assume at any point that they are ‘over it’.
You also need to be aware that there may be times they are ok with talking about it and others times when they won’t and so don’t feel offended if your offer of support is turned down, rather just reassure them that you will be ready to listen or support them at any time.
Our Wellbeing Team can provide Grief and Loss Webinars which provide information and support for people who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Participants learn about the stages of grief, how to cope with grief and how to find support.
If you would be interested in attending a session like this, please speak with your HR manager/Health and Wellbeing Lead to see if it’s something that can be facilitated within your workplace.
Some external links you may find helpful for further information or for accessing resources:
www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/feelings-and-symptoms/grief-bereavement-loss/
www2.hse.ie/mental-health/life-situations-events/bereavement/coping-with-grief/
www.familysupportni.gov.uk/Support/19/services-to-help-you-and-your-loved-ones-cope-with-bereavement
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