The holidays can be the toughest time of the year, in the midst of a pandemic grief can feel complicated and magnified.
1. Experience the Pain
Time doesn’t heal the pain associated with a loss; it’s what you do with that time that matters. Experiencing the pain—rather than constantly trying to escape it—can actually help you feel better in the long-term. So while it may be tempting to pretend the holidays don’t exist—or to numb the pain with alcohol—temporarily avoiding the pain only prolongs the anguish. Eventually, the holidays will get easier, but only if you allow yourself to experience the grief of going through them without your loved one.
2. Don’t try to please others
You certainly don’t have to force yourself to face every holiday event or celebratory tradition if it causes too much pain. Other people may try to convince you to participate, but you certainly don’t have to try to please everyone.
3) Find a Way to Honor Your Memories
Death can not rob you of your memories or love. So, create a special way to memorialize the person you’ve lost. Whether you decide to light a candle every night, eat your loved one’s favorite food or wearing their favorite color. You may also share some of your favorite stories and memories with others. Honoring your loved one can serve as a tangible reminder that although your loved one is gone, the love never dies.
4) Seek Help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you’re struggling with the holidays. Reminding loved ones that you’re having a rough time may be enough, but you also may want to reach out for more support. Look for support groups or contact a professional counselor to help you deal with your grief in a healthy manner.We are also here to help, please reach out if you are interested in a grief recovery class.
Lina LassiterPresident & Founder, Forever Healed
