Coping With Grief During the Holiday Season
For some, the holiday season is the best time of the year. But for some, especially those who’ve lost a loved one and are grieving, November and December can be difficult months. Holiday traditions and memories can bring up feelings of sadness and grief, whether you recently lost a family member or loved one or if it’s been many years.
Understanding that the holidays can be a difficult time for those who are grieving may not make it easier, but it can help you understand and accept your reactions. Acknowledging that this time of year won’t be easy, and making specific plans to prepare for it will be helpful to you.
As we enter into November and the holidays loom ahead, keep these suggestions in mind.
Talk to supportive individuals. Talk to friends, family members or a counselor or therapist about how you’re feeling. Let those close to you know that the holidays may look different for you this year, and that you may not feel like celebrating. There are also many grief support groups available, especially this time of year. MyMichigan Home Care’s Bereavement Support Services offers a virtual support group on Mondays in December from 6 to 7 p.m.
Remind yourself that all the emotions you’re feeling are valid. Anger, grief, sadness and more – all of these are common emotions to experience after the loss of a loved one. Let yourself feel these emotions and remember that everyone’s grief experience looks a little bit different.
Plan what the holiday season may look like for you. While it may feel easiest to simply ‘forget’ the holiday season altogether, try instead to come up with a new ritual, tradition or celebration that can bring comfort or even a little bit of joy this season. You can create a new tradition with family or friends, or, if it feels right to you, re-create a tradition or memory that you experienced with your loved one. You can also do something in their honor, such as lighting a candle in their memory, getting an ornament for your holiday tree with their name on it or simply having a moment of silence for them at a holiday dinner table.
One of the most important things to remember as you navigate this holiday season is that there’s no right or wrong way to celebrate. Surround yourself with supportive family members, friends or others who are experiencing grief and can relate to what you are feeling, and don’t forget to take care of yourself.
MyMichigan Home Care’s Bereavement Support Services offers a holiday grief support group on Mondays in December on Microsoft Teams from 6 to 7 p.m. In addition, families who request assistance can also attend virtual grief counseling. Those who would like to register or would like more information about grief support services may call (989) 633-1437.
