A CHRISTMAS message for isleofman.com readers from Cruse Bereavement Care Isle of Man:

"Christmas is a time when friends and families come together to celebrate.

"For some Christmas can be a difficult time when you are reminded that a special loved one is not around any more.

"At a time like Christmas the pressure to be happy and joyful can be overwhelming and the last thing you want to do.

"Give yourself space and let people know how you are feeling. Step away from the celebrations should you need to and let yourself feel sad.

"Feeling sad is natural at this time. In fact it is normal at this time for you to have a mixture of feelings such as sadness, guilt and or happiness. 

"If you can, talk to someone about your feelings. Talking can really help at a time when things are most difficult.

"As you approach Christmas without your loved one think about how you can bring happy memories of them in to your Christmas. You could perhaps purchase a special decoration in their memory and place it on your tree, make a special toast for them over dinner, or light a candle.

"You may decide to forget Christmas for this year and that's fine. If you do not feel like taking part in the celebrations let people know this is how you feel.

"An organisation such as Cruse Bereavement Care Isle of Man can help you prepare for the Christmas period.

"Cruse exists to promote the well-being of bereaved people and to help anyone suffering bereavement caused by death to understand their grief and cope with their loss."

For more information on Cruse Bereavement Care log onto www.cruseisleofman.org or telephone 01624 668191.

The charity runs a daytime helpline service that is operating over Christmas and New Year.

The opening times are:
Monday to Friday 9.30am – 1.30pm
Christmas Day: Closed *
Boxing Day: Closed *
December 27 until January 2 2012: Closed*

*Although the helpline is closed messages will be picked up and callers will be responded to within 24 hours.