The holiday season, often filled with joy and togetherness, can be particularly challenging for those coping with grief. These practical tips can help you find comfort, honor your emotions, and navigate this challenging time. Whether it’s setting boundaries, leaning on support, or creating new traditions, remember there’s no right or wrong way to handle the holidays—just what feels right for you.

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  • Set realistic expectations for yourself. This holiday season will be different, and that’s okay. Reflect on which traditions feel meaningful and which might be too much this year. Let go of expectations and accept help from others with tasks like cooking, shopping, or decorating. Simplify where needed and consider alternatives like online shopping if certain activities feel overwhelming.
  • Surround yourself with people who love and support you. Share your plans with family and friends and let them know of changes in holiday routines. Memories can sometimes be a source of comfort to the bereaved, so share them by telling stories and looking at photo albums.
  • Despite the temptation, try to avoid “canceling” the holiday. It is okay to avoid some circumstances that you don’t feel ready to handle, but don’t isolate yourself. Make some time for solitude, remembering, and grieving, but balance it with planned social activities.
  • Allow yourself to feel joy, sadness and anger. It is important to recognize that every family member has his/her own unique grief experience. No one way is right or wrong. Experiencing joy and laughter during a time of grief does not mean you have forgotten your loved one.
  • Draw comfort from doing for others. Consider giving a donation or gift in memory of your loved one. Invite a guest who might otherwise be alone for the holidays. Adopt a family in need during the holiday season.
  • Prioritize your well-being. Avoid using alcohol to cope with emotions, and try to minimize unnecessary stress by stepping back from the hustle and bustle. Incorporate physical activity into your routine—it’s a healthy way to boost your mood and manage grief.
  • Create a new tradition or ritual that accommodates your current situation. Some people find comfort in honoring traditions, while others find them unbearably painful. Discuss with your family the activities you want to include or exclude this year.

The most important thing to remember is there is no right or wrong way to celebrate the holiday season after the death of a loved one. The best coping mechanism for the first holiday season is to plan ahead, get support from others, and take it easy.

If you or a loved one is struggling to cope this holiday season, there is help available. To learn more about Oaks services or schedule an appointment, call our Access Center at 1-800-963-3377.