Coping strategies for the coming weeks

[whatisforteamum]

I always feel stressed around this time of year.I work in hospitality so have just done over 70 hour stretch it was supposed to be more.
This is my first Xmas since df died.we. e been doing well however DM has had from le getting dfs pension and other life issues.
Both my dB's have stayed away which is very strange and my df goes between helpful and selfish.
I'm expected to work all Xmas eve and day and boxing day.My heart is breaking for DM who has been invited out by dsis.
Any coping tactics would be great I actually think work could be my saviour.
Thinking of everyone who has lost someone they loved recently and I know we were lucky df was 76 and had a few years since he was diagnosed with advanced cancer.

Haven't got any coping strategies but I am very sorry for your loss and sending you a big hug.

I have bugger all coping strategies, whatisforteamum, but feel for you approaching the first anniversary. I found the run-up to the first year after my DH's death far worse than the day itself, which was sunny, happy and fun. DD had said a few months after her father died that she was glad it was in the winter, so that sadness was not identified with the summer. We've already had our first Christmas last year, made different by visitors, so not yet one with just us.