The holiday season should be joyful, at least according to the ads, Christmas carols, and Instagram reels. But for many, this time of year can feel far from celebratory, especially if you have suffered a significant loss. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or none of the above, the holidays are associated with family, togetherness, and tradition.
If you’ve lost a loved one, the holidays might trigger feelings of grief, which can include sadness, loneliness, or even anger. Fortunately, there are ways to cope with these emotions that don’t require canceling the season all together. Here are 8 ways to cope with grief and loss this holiday season.
Anything goes
Give yourself permission to experience the full range of emotions that might arise this time of year. Grief often comes in waves. One minute you may feel fine, then something triggers a memory, and you are overcome. Allow it all. If you tend to avoid or suppress your feelings, try journaling or practicing a mindfulness meditation for grief.
Give yourself grace
Because you may feel differently from moment-to-moment, you may have to soften the expectations you have for yourself. Maybe you don’t RSVP “yes” to every holiday invite. Maybe instead of traditional …
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