Father’s Day: Remembering With Love and Supporting Those Who Grieve
Father’s Day is a time for barbecues, breakfasts in bed, and celebrating the extraordinary men in our lives. But for many, Father’s Day can be tinged with sadness, a stark reminder of a father or child lost, with reminders in every shop, advert, and social media filled with pictures of happy families and close, loving relationships.
Managing grief on Father’s Day can be challenging. Still, with the right strategies and support, it is possible to find some solace and honour the memory of loved ones.
Understanding Grief: Grief is a personal journey, and there’s no right or wrong way to experience it. Some may feel a wave of emotions – sadness, anger, emptiness – while others may withdraw or appear numb. Be patient and understanding, remembering that grief can resurface even years after a loss.
Acknowledge their feelings: A simple “I’m thinking of you” or “I know this must be a difficult day” can go a long way.
Respect their wishes: Some may want to avoid Father’s Day altogether. Respect their boundaries and offer alternative activities. Others might find comfort in traditions or creating new rituals to honour their father’s memory.
Offer practical help: Grief can be overwhelming. Offer to help with errands, childcare, or simply keep them company.
Share memories together: Look at photos, watch a favourite film, or visit a place that holds special meaning.
Share Memories: If you knew the father who passed, offer to share a funny story or a heartwarming memory. Focus on celebrating his life and the positive impact he had.
Considerations for Cards and Gifts: Choose a card that offers sympathy or acknowledges their loss. A personalised gift with a shared memory or a donation to a charity in their father’s name can be a thoughtful gesture.
Remember:
It’s OK not to be OK. Grief takes time. If you’re unsure what to say or do, just be present. By being sensitive and supportive, we can help those grieving navigate Father’s Day with a little less heartache.
Here are some additional resources that may be helpful if you or someone you know is struggling:
For adults
- Cruse Scotland Bereavement Care – call: 0808 802 6161 Monday to Friday 9am – 8pm, weekends 10am – 2pm.
- Strong Men – supporting men after bereavement.
- NHS Scotland – here’s some advice from NHS Scotland, but do also talk to your GP.
- Samaritans – Someone is always available to talk, day or night. Call 116 123 to speak to a Samaritan or check the website for other ways to contact
- Sue Ryder – online bereavement support
For Children and bereaved parents
- Winston’s Wish – supporting children and young people up to age 25, with resources for loved ones and teachers. Call 0808 802 0021 Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm, or email ask@winstonswish.org
- Sands – the Sands National Helpline provides a safe, confidential place for anyone who has been affected by the death of a baby. Whether your baby died long ago or recently, they are here for you. Call: 0808 164 3332 or email: helpline@sands.org.uk
- Child Bereavement UK – supporting both bereaved children and bereaved parents. Call 0800 028 8840 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, or email helpline@childbereavementuk.org
- Grief Encounter – call 0808 802 0111 Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm, or email contact@griefencounter.org.uk
- The Compassionate Friends Supporting parents after a child dies with in-person and online community groups.
