How to Cope With Loss Over the Holidays

Losing a loved one over the holiday season is heartbreaking.

While everyone else is fussing over getting the perfect gift or ensuring they have all the best decorations up, the holiday season can leave the bereaved with intense feelings of grief and depression. 

It is important to understand that everyone grieves differently. Some people are perfectly able to celebrate the holidays to their fullest in honor of their lost loved one, while others feel the need to scale back or skip them entirely.

Both are acceptable ways of grieving, and showing more or less sadness does not relate to how much a person cared for those who have passed.

It is common and normal to feel more grief during the holiday season, especially the first one after the loved one’s passing, than during other times of the year. National Cremation offers a few ideas to help ease the pain this holiday season.

Recognize That Things Are Different

The holidays will never be the same without your loved one, and it is often helpful to take that into account while making holiday plans. Certain traditions may be difficult to carry on without your loved one there.

Planning to have someone else help carry on the tradition or to change it ahead of time can make things much easier.

Scale Back on Holiday Traditions

Grieving often makes holiday preparations difficult. If you often host holiday celebrations, consider taking a break this year and letting another friend or family member take charge.

If sending cards becomes stressful, skip them. Others will understand that this is a difficult time for you. If you feel that holiday parties may be overwhelming, be sure to have an easy way home or out of the situation.

Spend Time With Friends And Family

Avoid cutting yourself off completely, as many times family and friends are the best at helping you ease the pain of your loss. Friends and family can also help your prepare for the holidays by helping you focus and being emotional support.

Grief counseling groups can also be a huge help, since you can talk with people who know how it feels to be in your situation.

Create a Small Memorial

Light a candle at home or in a place of worship. Create an ornament or decoration in their memory. Dedicate a box for friends and family to put small mementos in.

Sometimes putting a little time and effort to create a small space dedicated to your loved one can create an outlet for grief, allowing you to celebrate the holiday season while keeping your loved one close to your heart.

Give Back This Season

If you see something while shopping your loved one would want, don’t be afraid to buy it and donate it. Volunteer your time or donate to an organization your loved one supported to continue their legacy.

It’s a way to get into the holiday spirit, paying respect to your loved one, and helping someone in need at the same time.

If you have recently lost a loved one, National Cremation sends our condolences. If you require our assistance this holiday season, please contact the nearest location, and we will help you through this difficult time.

National Cremation is the nation’s oldest and largest provider of simple and affordable cremation services. Whether you have an immediate need or want to plan your cremation services in advance, we’re always available to assist you and your family. Contact us online or call (855)-469-9474 today.