Grieving the loss of a loved one is never easy, but holiday grief can bring an added layer of pain. The season’s traditions, gatherings, and memories often intensify feelings of loss, making it even harder to cope during what’s supposed to be a joyful time.
Everyone around you is busy decorating, attending holiday parties and shopping for presents while you may feel sad, alone and a sense of dread towards the holidays. While there’s no easy fix, there are some things you can do to honor your emotions and gently support yourself through this difficult period.
We’ve put together a few tips to hopefully help you get through this potentially painful time of the year.
- Allow yourself to feel all your emotions, no matter how long ago your loss was. Grief has no timeline. Go at your own pace.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. You don’t have to go through this alone. Many people want to support you—they may just not know how.
- Plan ahead. Make a to-do list of things you’ve been putting off. Schedule time with loved ones and plan activities you enjoy. Don’t forget to practice self-care.
- Don’t ignore the holidays—focus on the family and friends around you. Create new memories while honoring the ones you’ve shared with your lost loved one.
- But, if the pain feels too raw, give yourself permission to “skip” the holiday. There’s always next year, and you can celebrate when and if you’re ready.
It’s important to note that there’s no right or wrong to celebrate the holidays after a loss. Grief is complicated and unique for everyone. While accepting loss becomes easier over time, it is often something we carry with us forever.
Be kind to yourself and allow space to mourn in your own way. And always remember, you are not alone.
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