Atlanta’s Own Shanti Das Shares Heartfelt Guide for Navigating Grief During the Holidays
ATLANTA – The holiday season is often painted as a time filled with joy, laughter, and celebration. Yet, for many, it can be a period full of painful memories and heartache, especially if they are grappling with the loss of a loved one. Understanding this reality like few others, Shanti Das, a renowned music industry veteran and mental health advocate, has crafted a pocket guide titled “Have Yourself a Merry Little Griefmas.” This unique guide is designed to offer support, comfort, and helpful tips for anyone trying to cope with grief during this difficult time of year.
From Personal Loss to Public Support
Shanti’s journey through grief has been a long and challenging road. Losing her father to suicide when she was just a baby set the stage for a lifetime of heartache. As she recounted, “We lost our father (Ash Tosh) to suicide when I was seven months old. The losses just kept coming over the years.” In fact, she has faced the passing of numerous loved ones, including her sister in 2019 and her mother just last year.
Despite these challenges, Shanti has transformed her pain into purpose. “I created this guide to help others who may be grappling with grief, particularly during the holiday season,” she explained. Over the past year, she collaborated with friends to compile ideas and tips that could help others navigate similar feelings.
Grieving During the Holidays
Shanti’s guide acknowledges that the holidays can be a “struggle for many who are missing a loved one that has transitioned.” Rather than shying away from those feelings, she encourages individuals to honor their emotions and take the necessary time to heal. “Don’t let anyone dictate how you should be feeling,” she stresses. “It’s perfectly fine to reach out for help while also trying to allow others in to support you.”
Among the several insightful tips in the guide, one major recommendation is to engage in volunteer work. Shanti highlights the positivity it can bring, saying, “Volunteering at a local shelter or food bank can really help counteract feelings of sadness.” Giving back can also create a sense of connection with others.
The Power of Community and Connection
Das founded her nonprofit organization, “Silence the Shame,” in 2016 with the goal of raising awareness about mental health and reducing stigma. Inspired by her personal losses, her work aims to support those dealing with similar struggles. “What inspires me is being able to help others in need,” she said passionately.
She further emphasized the importance of community in coping with grief. “The hardest part sometimes is finding yourself home alone, listening to Christmas music that brings up painful memories,” she shared. “Get active and socialize. Even if it’s just one person, you need to let someone in.”
Creative Ways to Honor Loved Ones
Commemorating lost loved ones can be incredibly healing, and Shanti’s guide offers numerous creative suggestions for doing just that. For instance, she suggests, “Some people have started foundations in their loved ones’ name based on their cause of death.” Additionally, she suggests creating memory ornaments, planting a tree, or even forming a memory book to keep spirits alive during this festive time.
Finding Your Coping Strategy
For Shanti, travel has become a treasured way to cope. “I really like tip No. 17, which is finding ways to cope prior to the holidays. That could mean setting up a grief support group or simply planning a trip,” she states. With memories tied to her holiday traditions, Shanti finds it necessary to create new experiences that help her heal.
Her message to those facing mental health struggles is clear: “Don’t be afraid to ask for support.” Whether it’s reaching out to friends, family, or community resources, there’s strength in seeking help.
Join the Movement
For anyone interested in supporting Shanti’s initiative or volunteering with Silence the Shame, there are numerous ways to get involved. The organization hosts various events throughout the year and welcomes volunteers from all walks of life. And for those looking to grab a copy of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Griefmas,” it is available for purchase through various platforms.
As the holiday season approaches, Shanti Das reminds us all that it’s okay to feel, to grieve, and importantly, to seek community and connection. After all, it is through shared experiences that healing often begins.
