The rest of the world seems overjoyed with holiday spirit and yet you just want to get in bed and pull the covers over your head. You’re grieving. Perhaps your loss was quite recent or maybe it occurred years ago.
All you know is that you dread this time of year and cannot wait for it to be over.
While the holidays are definitely a challenge for grievers, using these five strategies will help you feel a little less blue.
- Plan ahead: Be prepared for difficult questions and comments. Make lists. Shop online to avoid crowds. Drive yourself so you can leave when you need to.
- Find ways to honor loved ones: Donations, a memorial book, special food or meals will help you feel like they are around.
- Take care of yourself: Grief has an effect on our physical and emotional health, as well as our heart. Extra sleep, relaxation, and self-care are important.
- Limit your activities and self-demands: It is OK to say no; it also OK to say you’re not “feeling” good. Feelings can also include emotions.
- Remember, it’s OK to be happy: Find small things to celebrate. Volunteer or donate to a holiday cause.
Grief is a personal experience unique to each mourner and unique to each loss-and comes in waves, as times of peace and calm are suddenly shattered by an overpowering emotion.
Utilizing these tips may help ease you through the holidays. Remember that grieving is one of the most universal of all experiences-you are not alone.