Navigating the Holidays After a Loss

The holidays can be a season of joy, but for those grieving a loss, they often feel like some of the roughest terrain to navigate. The traditions, gatherings, and festivities that once brought comfort can instead serve as painful reminders of what’s missing.

It’s important to remind yourself: **there is no “right” way to handle the holidays in grief.** What feels right for you one moment may shift in the next—and that’s okay. Be gentle with yourself and give yourself permission to adjust as needed.

Honoring Your Loved One

Finding ways to acknowledge your loved one during the holidays can provide a sense of connection and healing. Here are some suggestions to externalize your grief and give it a meaningful time and place:

- Say a prayerabout your loved one before a holiday meal.

- Light a candlein their memory.

- Create an online tribute, sharing photos or memories with friends and family.

- Share a favorite story about your loved one at gatherings.

- Invite others to share their favorite memories as well.

- Chat online with friends or support groups who understand your journey.

These rituals, no matter how small, can serve as touchstones of comfort, keeping your loved one’s spirit present during the holidays.

Embracing Change

Grief can also be an opportunity to reimagine the holidays. It gives you permission to evaluate which traditions bring you peace and which you may want to set aside for now. Trying the holidays in a new way—whether it’s simplifying your plans, traveling to a new destination, or starting fresh traditions—can help ease the weight of expectation.

There’s no need to force cheerfulness. Sadness is allowed because grief, as they say, doesn’t take a holiday.Allow yourself to feel your emotions, whatever they may be, and lean on those who support you during this time.

A Final Thought

As you approach the holidays, remember that it’s okay to move at your own pace. Grief is deeply personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing it. Whether you choose to surround yourself with loved ones, take time for quiet reflection, or mix the two, trust that you know what you need most.

If you're looking for more ways to navigate grief during the holidays,[click here for a video on Grief and the Holidays from Grief.com]

You are not alone, and it’s okay to take things one step at a time.

#grief #holidays #Thanksgiving