Dealing with Grief at Christmas
Dealing with Grief at Christmas
Dealing with grief all year round is difficult but during the Christmas season, it can be exceptionally challenging. While the holiday is typically associated with joy, celebration, and togetherness, those who are grieving may experience heightened feelings of sadness, loneliness, and even anger. It’s important to acknowledge and address these emotions, allowing yourself the time and space to grieve while also finding ways to navigate the holiday season. In this blog, we will discuss some strategies to help you deal with grief at Christmas and find moments of peace and healing amidst the holiday bustle.
1. Allow yourself to feel: Grief is a natural and necessary process, and it’s important to give yourself permission to experience and acknowledge your emotions. Allow yourself to cry, reminisce, and express your feelings in healthy ways. Suppressing or ignoring grief can make it harder to cope in the long run.
2. Create new traditions: Sometimes, the traditional holiday festivities can be painful reminders of your loss. Consider creating new traditions that help you honour your loved one while also finding joy. Lighting a candle in their memory, preparing their favourite dish, or watching their favourite film can be meaningful ways to keep their spirit alive.
3. Seek support: Remember that you are not alone in your grief. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups who can provide understanding and empathy during this difficult time. Sharing memories and talking about your loved one with others who loved them too can be healing.
4. Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally can help alleviate some of the pain associated with grief. Prioritise self-care activities such as exercise, getting enough sleep, and eating well. Additionally, engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading, writing, painting, or spending time in nature.
5. Set boundaries: It’s okay to say no to certain invitations or activities that may be overwhelming or triggering. Recognise that it’s perfectly acceptable to prioritise your mental health and well-being. Communicate your needs to your loved ones and explain that you may need some space and time to grieve.
6. Remember the power of giving: Volunteering or contributing to a cause that was important to your loved one can be a meaningful way to honour their memory during the holiday season. Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment while also giving you a chance to redirect your energy into something positive.
7. Connect with your loved one: Find ways to maintain a connection with your loved one during the holiday season. Write them a letter, visit their grave, or create a memory box filled with pictures and mementos that remind you of them. By finding tangible ways to maintain a connection, you can keep their memory alive while also finding solace in their presence.
8. Seek professional help if needed: If the grief becomes overwhelming and starts affecting your daily life, it might be helpful to seek professional help. A grief counsellor or therapist can provide guidance and support to help you navigate the complex emotions associated with loss.
Remember, grief is a personal journey, and everyone copes differently. It’s important to be patient with yourself and allow yourself the time and space you need to heal. While the pain may feel overwhelming during the holiday season, remember that there is hope for brighter days ahead. May you find comfort and peace amidst the holiday season and may the memories of your loved one bring you solace and joy.
If you find yourself struggling, please remember – you are not alone. There are many organisations and charities there to help and support you. We have included a few numbers below for you to make a note of if you need to.
Samaritans – available 24 hours a day by calling 116 123
Cruse – 0808 808 1677
Mind – 0300 304 7000