Grief can be all-consuming during the holiday season. Missing a loved one during this magical time of year can bring a sense of depression and sadness that is hard to shake for many people.
Whether it is the first year without your loved one or many years have gone by, grief during the holidays never goes away. Although it never goes away, there are ways you can deal with grief during this magical time of year to make it more manageable.
According to Self magazine, there are a few tips that can help you deal with grief during the holiday season. The first one is to be 100 percent clear with friends and family what you want for the holidays. If a day of cooking with a ton of people is too much, let that be known. It is up to you how you choose to spend the festive season. However, you have to be crystal clear about what you want, even if you think others will disagree.
The holidays are crazy, but if you are grieving you must schedule time for yourself. If you are getting lost in all the activities, it will only heighten your grief. Plus, you have to make sure you’re your well-being is taken care of and you can’t do that unless you spend some quality moments with yourself. Example, even if you are not hungry, your body still needs nourishment so at least eat a healthy snack.
Feel your feelings without any guilt. What that means is whether you want to be with loved ones or alone during the holiday season, do it. Some people like to grieve alone, while others prefer to surround themselves with loved ones. There is no right or wrong, so let what you genuinely feel shine through. It is also ok if your feelings are to talk about your deceased loved one. Talking can be useful to share memories. It can help ease some of the grief.
Most importantly if you are grieving during this time of year be patient with yourself. Grief is a process, and everyone process it differently. Let it happen and don’t judge yourself by where someone else in your family is regarding their pain.
Also, remember it is ok to be sad, you are missing a loved one. There is nothing wrong with saying and expressing that emotion. You don’t have to put on a brave face.
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