Hello what-should-i-do

I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your Mum last year. It sounds like it's been a very difficult time for both you and your Dad and it's understandable that you are having times when you clash. 

Christmas can indeed heighten the feelings of loss and grief. Cruse has an article about coping with grief at Christmas that you may find helpful along with this article from Marie Curie. Both of these organisations offer bereavement counselling/support and this may be something that you or your Dad might want to explore at some point. I know that many people have posted here on the forum sharing how bereavement support has helped them in their journey with loss. 

In the meantime, I wonder if being able to communicate with your Dad about how you're both struggling and the arguments that you've had would be possible. It may be that meeting up somewhere on neutral ground, perhaps with a mutual friend or family member who can support you both is an option. Or perhaps you'd feel more comfortable writing a letter to your Dad as a way to gently open the door to a conversation. 

Both Marie Curie and Cruse have helplines that you can call for advice and support so do give them a call if you'd like to just ask for some help with how to approach your Dad. 

I hope that the two of you can find a way forward together and that you can share some happier times together over the festive period. 

Best wishes to you both, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator