Loneliness and grief in the Advent season: master the festival together

Loneliness and grief in the Advent season: master the festival together

Christmas time is often referred to as the best time of the year, but for many people it can also be the hardest. Loneliness and grief in particular come to light. Claudia Scheuringer-Ham, who works as a hospice coordinator at the Red Cross in Grieskirchen, describes this time as emotional and full of memories that represent a challenge for many. "There are many feelings that have been over -man when you lose a loved one," she explains and encourages mourners to look for support.

For those who have to struggle with grief, the mobile hospice in Grieskirchen offers various offers of help. Not only an open life café is organized there, but also offered individual accompaniment. "You can call me directly. Often the contact is also made via general practitioners," says Scheuringer-Hem. It is important to her to convey to the mourners that there are always people who are ready to support

loneliness all year round

Another relevant topic that focuses on again during the Advent season is the loneliness of older people. Karl Hemmelmayer, the deputy district chairman of the Eferding senior citizens' association, emphasizes that loneliness does not only occur at Christmas time. "She is a year -round problem that many seniors often do not know," he says. In order to counteract this, the senior citizens' association organizes numerous activities to promote new acquaintances and create beautiful memories. These events include not only the usual gatherings, but also special Christmas events such as a commemoration and excursions to Christmas markets.

Dechant Johann Gmeiner, pastor of Grieskirchen, points out how important it is to become active yourself. "It is essential to look for a community and not to wait for others to act," he explains. Community is particularly important to the church, and it is recommended to invite lonely people over the holidays and to celebrate together. Gmeiner emphasizes that the church should contribute to bringing people together as the central place of the community.

practical tips for support

Claudia Scheuringer-Ham also provides practical advice for helpfulness towards mourners friends or family members. "Understanding listening and concrete offers of help are very important," she emphasizes. A simple offer such as a walk or drinking coffee can do far more than generic statements such as "I'm there for you". Such concrete suggestions can help and create a feeling of connection.

These challenges are not only present during the holidays; The topic of loneliness and grief shows how important it is not only in the Christmas season, but also to be active all year round. Local contact points are available for further information and support:

• Seniorenbund Eferding
  chairman Johann Schweitzer: 0664/3551811, Johann.schweitzer@gmx.at
  Chairman Karl Hemmelmayer: 0664/9764 077, karl.hemmmelmayr@liwest
• Mobile Hospiz Grieskirchen
  Hospizkoordinator: Claudia Scheuringer-Behamen: 0664/8234 289, claudia.schuringer-geham@o.roteskreuz.at
• parish Grieskirchen
  Advent wreath blessing: 30. November, 4:30 p.m.
  All services at dioezes-linz.at/pfarre/4103/gottesdienste

In the Advent season, we should all remember that the emotional stress that some people experience needs real support and understanding. The Christmas lights can also shine in dark times when we act together.