Coping with Grief during the Holidays

The holiday season often carries a weight of expectations and traditions. For someone grieving the loss of a loved one, this time can be particularly challenging. Coping with grief amidst the festivities requires a delicate balance of self-reflection, acceptance, and self-care.

Set realistic expectations for yourself. Examine the tasks and events of celebrating and ask yourself if you want to continue them. Accept others' offers to cook, shop, decorate. Consider shopping by phone, Internet or catalog this year if you feel a need to avoid crowds or memories.

Despite the temptation, try to avoid “canceling” the holiday. It is OK to avoid some circumstances that you don’t feel ready to handle. Make some time for solitude, remembering and grieving, but balance it with planned social activities. Allow yourself to feel joy, sadness, anger and allow yourself to grieve. Everyone has a unique grief experience. No one way is right or wrong. Experiencing joy and laughter during a time of grief does not mean you have forgotten your loved one.

Surround yourself with people who love and support you. Memories can sometimes be a source of comfort, so share them by telling stories and looking at photo albums. Take care of yourself. Avoid using alcohol to self-medicate your mood. Physical exercise or writing in a journal can be a good outlet for your grief. Give yourself permission to buy something frivolous and indulgent, just because.