It can be a great struggle for people who have suffered from the loss of a loved one, be it a family member, friend or a pet. It’s common for people to be unable to manage their feelings. Feelings of grief and loss can swell around the holiday season starting at Thanksgiving. Holiday celebrations that are meant to elicit joy can serve as painful reminders of loss.
The following are some tips for helping you get through the holiday season:
Find a way to honor your memories of your loved one during the holiday season. Something as simple as lighting a candle in honor of your loved one can be a reminder that although your loved one is gone, your memories and love for your loved one will continue.
Reach out to others and ask for help if you’re struggling with loss and grief. It’s okay to remind others that you’re having a tough time. Look for a support group in your area. Reach out for help from a professional counselor or talk to a close friend.
Allow yourself to feel pain during the holiday season. It can be tempting to numb your pain with alcohol or avoid your pain in other ways. Remember though that grief is a process through which we heal.
Set healthy boundaries for yourself. Don’t try to please everyone. Don’t force yourself to go to events if you don’t want to go. Take control over how long you stay at an event if it’s distressing by driving yourself or having someone drive you who is willing to take you home early.
You will likely feel a range of emotions which might include sadness, joy, anger or guilt, even guilt over feeling joy. Let yourself feel your emotions without judging yourself.
Focus on what you can control. You can’t control how others are celebrating or what others are doing. You do have control over what you choose to do. If crowds and Christmas music and bustling are upsetting, think about shopping online. If preparing for Christmas is overwhelming, think about making some changes that make things easier for you.
Do something kind for others. In the worst of your grief, you still have much to give. An act of kindness can be uplifting for you and help someone else.