Coping with Grief during the Holidays

By Jade Caswell, LMHC, NCC

                  Grief during any season can be a challenge, however, coping with grief during the holidays can be especially painful. During the holiday season, there may be places, traditions, and settings that may bring up memories of past loss. The holiday season can stir up a variety of strong emotions for many, including both highs and lows. These emotions are normal and important to recognize and validate as we process them. For those coping with grief during the holidays, being able to honor and create space for their emotions is a crucial part of the grieving journey. Read more below to learn how to navigate grief during the holidays:

1.  Connect with others

Avoiding isolation, and seeking connection with others can be healing, especially when emotions become heavy. Family, friends, and grief and loss support groups can be of great assistance in forming connection with others.

2. Prioritize your needs

Often, the holiday season can be a busier time of the year. Creating time to take care of your physical and emotional needs is important for overall wellbeing. Think: self-care. For example, reading a good book, taking time to relax and preparing nutritious meals.

3. Say 'no'

During the holidays, many people have the tendency to overextend themselves. Don't be afraid to say 'no' and set boundaries with your time and energy. This helps to prevent overextending yourself and protect your emotional energy.

4. Honor your feelings

Acknowledging and caring for your emotions is crucial, especially when emotions may feel heavier. Taking time to journal, creating 'me time' and reflecting on emotions can be helpful.

5. Commemorate loss

 If you are feeling comfortable, creating a way to commemorate loss may be a part of the healing journey. For example, lighting a candle in memory of a lost loved one, creating an extra place at the table, or playing their favorite song. Creating a new tradition or honoring old ones may also aid in coping with grief.

5. Set realistic expectations

Have an understanding that holidays may look different with loss. Letting go of expectations and accepting some change can reframe your perspective.

Need help navigating grief? Please call us today at 813-335-9794. We look forward to hearing from you!