Dealing With Grief During the Holidays
Coping with the loss of a loved one can be challenging at the best of times. The grief and sadness associated with the passing of a close family member or friend is often more deeply felt at this time of year. Happy memories can magnify feelings of loss, and often brings emotions closer to the surface during the holiday season.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the loss of a loved one or with any major change this holiday season, read on to learn some practical tips for dealing with loss in a healthy way.
Take Care of Yourself
Be sure to make the effort to take good care of yourself. The holidays are often a time for indulgence, but avoid depressants like alcohol and limit high-sugar foods. If youre accustomed to a routine, stick to it as closely as possible. Plenty of sleep, healthy eating habits and regular exercise can go a long way to keeping you in good mental and physical shape.
Make Time for Yourself
If youre not feeling up to attending the seasons many parties and gatherings, its okay to bow out now and then. Tell your friends and family members that youre taking some time for yourself but dont shut yourself away. And dont beat yourself up for feeling low; its normal to be more strongly effected by grief around the holidays.
Remember To Talk About It
Dont forget that its good to talk to friends and family about the way you feel. If its hard for you, its okay to say its hard! Just having someone to listen to you and talk about it with you can be a healing experience. If you have a hard time speaking about your feelings, consider writing your feelings down on paper in a letter or keeping a journal.
Do What Makes You Comfortable
If you find the prospect of taking part in the seasonal activities you once enjoyed with your loved one too hard to bear, consider making new traditions. Make an effort to see close friends and spend time with family, but instead of taking part in a tradition that may make you sad, simply take a break from the activity for the year and plan to do something that makes you feel good.
Take Comfort in the Memories
Rather than avoid the memories, take comfort in the happy moments you shared with the person youve lost. Appreciate the positive times you shared and be sad for that loss. Let the memories bring tears and laughter; its okay to cry and laugh at the same time as you remember them lovingly and mourn your loss.
Give Back
Keeping busy and giving back can help to fill your heart, so dont forget that helping others can help you feel good, too. Volunteer your time with a soup kitchen, toy drive or shelter to occupy your mind and help make you feel fulfilled. If youre looking for ways to honor your loved one, consider donating money you would have spent on their gifts to a charity they supported.
Remember, its normal to feel sad after the loss of a loved one, especially during the holidays season. Dont feel guilty about your emotions or try to mask your feelings; talk about it, take acre of yourself and do what you can. If you find yourself really struggling, dont be afraid to reach out to a friend, family member or a professional for help.
Christie MacLachlan is a compassionate authority on funeral planning and grief recovery. She is often found enjoying life to fullest. In her spare time she writes for FuneralPlanning101.com An informational source about funeral costs, burial interment, memorials and more.
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