Survey Reveals One-Third of Britons Hesitate to Discuss Death

A recent survey indicates that a significant number of Britons feel hesitant about openly discussing death, with one-third expressing feelings of guilt over potentially burdening others with their thoughts or emotions.

In a poll conducted by The Times, around 33% of adults admitted they seldom share their experiences related to grief, with 20% indicating they completely suppress their feelings.

This survey, which involved 2,000 UK adults, was initiated in preparation for the upcoming Celebration Day on May 26, a day dedicated to commemorating the lives of those who have passed away.

Launched in 2022, Celebration Day draws inspiration from cultural traditions, such as Mexico’s Day of the Dead, which aim to celebrate lives rather than dwell on sadness.

Dame Prue Leith shared with The Times her intention to pay tribute to her deceased parents and siblings, acknowledging herself as the “sole survivor” of her family.

Notable advocates for Celebration Day include Chris Robshaw, former captain of the England rugby team, who lost his father at the age of five.

Robshaw remarked on the British tendency to maintain emotional restraint, stating, “We tend to have a bit of a stiff upper lip and try to move on. It should be a good thing to celebrate and enjoy those moments and speak about it a little more.”

He elaborated on his family’s unique ways of remembering his father, Alan, a “cheeky chap,” through storytelling and laughter, noting, “Our plan this year is to play some golf in his memory. We’ll enjoy a drink afterward and reminisce.”

He also recalled his family’s remembrance traditions for other relatives, including wearing vibrant shirts that his uncle loved and honoring his wife’s grandfather with a glass of port.

Julia Samuel, a psychotherapist specializing in grief, collaborated on launching Celebration Day.

“Often, we discuss forgetting and moving on. I want to emphasize that Celebration Day is about remembering and connecting and having a special day to honor memories,” she noted.

Samuel stressed the importance of taking moments to reflect, stating, “Without that pause, we might just keep pushing forward without appreciating the connections we have with those who came before us.”

She encourages individuals to share their memories or inquire about the experiences of others regarding lost loved ones.

“People genuinely appreciate discussing the significant figures in their lives who have passed away. They light up when reminiscing. Ask anyone, ‘Tell me about them,’ or suggest looking through albums together to spark conversations about their lives,” Samuel advised.

In honor of her late mother, Samuel plans to celebrate with a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit, both of which were favorites of her mother.

The research survey was conducted by Research Without Barriers between May 15 and 20.

In observance of Celebration Day this year, 250 WHSmith stores will offer star-shaped pin badges, with proceeds supporting four charities: Mind, the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, Make-A-Wish, and Hospice UK.

Additionally, 100 National Trust locations will provide free wildflower seeds for planting in memory of loved ones, following the success of a memorial forest initiative by Times readers two years ago.

Celebration Day will be observed annually on May 26, serving as a national occasion to celebrate and honor those who have passed. This year, participants are invited to share their memories on social media using the hashtag #ShareYourStar.