Coping With Grief During the Holidays

Holidays can be challenging for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Practicing self-care and celebrating the season on your own terms are especially important. The Elara Caring Bereavement Dept. has provided some suggestions to help cope with grief and loss during the holidays.

1. Make a plan. Determine where and with whom you’ll spend your holidays, and don’t feel pressured to stick to your normal traditions. You’re adjusting to a “new normal”, and this can be a time to establish new traditions with those around you.
2. Be patient with yourself. Cry if you need to, and allow yourself to express your feelings. The holidays may not feel joyful right now, and that’s okay. Be gentle with yourself as you’re experiencing your feelings of grief.
3. Lean on others. Call or visit your friends and family, and share special memories of your loved one. Having a supportive, compassionate person to listen may help you cope with your feelings.
4. Honor your loved one. Find a meaningful way to honor your loved one’s memory. That could be lighting a candle, decorating a memorial site, displaying photos or playing special music. Do something that helps you embrace their memory.

For more information about Elara Caring’s in home hospice care and bereavement services, and how they may benefit you or your loved one, contact us today. You can also learn more by visiting our website to view our full line of home care services.