How to Handle Grief During the Holidays 

The holidays are often a joyous occasion for many, but for others, it’s a reminder that their loved one isn’t here to enjoy it anymore. Grief is a feeling that doesn’t go away but lingers; it often weighs on people for those who have happy memories during certain times. The holidays can cause this extra weight of grief; below are tips on how to handle it.

1. Remember the happy memories 
   You may have mixed memories of the person or pet that passed, but by remembering the happy experiences you had with them, it relieves some of the weight of grief. Remember experiences you had together like a trip, a recipe you’d make or simply, their scent. Opening your heart and mind to the happy memories can help soothe your thoughts of sadness.
2. Keep their traditions
   Whether your loved one made a certain recipe, sang Christmas carols or wore something festive, continue their traditions. By keeping their holiday traditions alive, you keep their memory alive. You can smile as you think of them because you’re including them even after they’ve passed.
3. Talk about your loved ones
   Whether it’s a prayer before a family gathering or when you’re sitting together after opening presents, talk about your loved one. Memories bring families together and often leads to laughter. Your family understands how you feel because they lost the person, too and talking to those who understand will help you cope.
4. Honor them
   Lighting a candle, leaving “their” seat open at the dinner table or decorating their gravestone in traditional holiday décor are just a few ways you can honor your loved one during the holidays. You can feel still recognize them and the influence they had on your family.
5. Remove yourself from unnecessary stressful situations
   The holidays are stressful – trying to give everyone the “perfect” gift, bringing or making food, traveling – but, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Don’t overdo it because trying to stay busy won’t remove the grief you’re feeling underneath. Dealing with grief can feel like someone is literally taking your heart out of your chest but adding stress to your daily routine will not help your grieving process. Remember to give yourself time for yourself to breathe, stay hydrated and fed, and clear your mind.