The holidays are always marketed as a season for joy, but for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one, they can be difficult to navigate.
As everyone around you celebrates, long-standing family traditions may now feel painful, reminding you who is missing. Or you may feel guilty that you’re allowing yourself to celebrate at all, worrying that your grief should look different.
There’s no right way to handle the holiday season while experiencing grief, but there are ways to make this holiday season gentler.
Acknowledge your feelings
Know that it’s okay to feel whatever comes up — sadness, anger, joy, or a mix of emotions, everyone grieves differently. Allow yourself to feel without judging your emotions or worrying about what society tells you to feel.
Honor your loved one
Even though you loved one is gone, their memory lives in your heart. Carrying on a tradition they cherish may be a way to honor and remember them.
But if that’s too difficult, create a new tradition in their memory. Light a candle, hang an ornament, watch their favorite movie or play their favorite song as a way to maintain a sense of connection to them.
Set realistic expectations
The holiday season is a busy time for most of us – from work parties to friend gatherings, there’s always somewhere to be. But you don’t have to overextend yourself. Instead, give yourself permission to simplify plans to skip events that feel overwhelming.
Lean on support
Family, friends, or your faith can be pillars of strength during this time. Be honest about what you need and let others show up for you. And remember, your hospice team is here to support you when the season feels heavy.
Take care of yourself
Self-care is always important but during this difficult time of grief, make yourself a priority. Rest, eat well, hydrate, and exercise when you can. Avoid overindulging on food or alcohol which ends up leaving you feeling more depleted.
Find small moments of peace
Allow yourself moments of quiet reflection where you feel free to express your feelings or calm your spirit. Take a short walk, say a prayer, listen to music or journal your thoughts.
While grief can be overwhelming and often isolating, remember that you’re not alone. Grief is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it by yourself.
Your Heart and Soul Hospice team is available to be at your side to help you cope during this experience. Reach out when you need connection or someone to listen.
Visit our Grief Support page to contact us.