SIBBS Newsletter, Winter 2022

SIBBS Newsletter, Winter 2022 | www.tcf.org.uk 14 A few New Year’s reminders from me to you I of course can’t speak for all bereaved siblings, but for me the festive period followed by a new year is often quite draining both mentally and physically, but I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling this way. Although it’s been many years since my sister passed, it’s still just as hard going through all the usual Christmas and new year’s traditions without her. So, I’d like to share a few new year’s reminders to encourage those reading this to 1) be kind to yourself and 2) know that you’re not alone with your grief. - Prioritising yourself and your mental wellbeing isn’t selfish - it’s essential. At times we can be our own worst enemy, so where you can, give yourself time to sit, think and switch off. It’s okay to take personal days, say no to social plans, and spend an afternoon in bed with Netflix. - Remember, every step - no matter how big or small it may feel - is a huge achievement. There is no time limit or progression bar you must follow – take each and every day at your own pace. - It’s okay not to be okay. This is one of my favourite things to remind myself of time and time again. Expressing your grief, how you feel, what you’re thinking is not a weakness. - Grief looks and feels different for EVERYONE. There is no one ‘right way’ to grieve. It’s individual and incomparable to someone else’s. Don’t ever think you’re ‘wrong’ or ‘weird’ for not feeling or thinking the same as those in similar situations. by Ellana Salt