Managing Grief During the Holidays | Seanna Crosbie, LCSW-S Therapist in Austin, Texas & California

The holidays, with their twinkling lights and festive tunes, somehow magnify the quiet ache of grief. It's like attempting to navigate a maze of emotions where each corner hides memories, both cherished and painful.

The weight of an empty chair at the dinner table or the silence where familiar laughter used to be feels particularly pronounced during this time of supposed joy. It's hard — a collision of celebrating the present and grappling with the absence of those we hold dear.

In these moments, it becomes evident that grief doesn't take a holiday; instead, it lingers in the background, making the festivities a poignant reminder of what once was.

Whether you've lost a loved one, experienced a significant life change, or are grappling with the weight of past losses, it's essential to acknowledge and honor your feelings. Here, I  offer you practical and compassionate strategies to help you navigate grief during the holidays.

Acknowledge Your Emotions:

The holidays can intensify feelings of loss - you miss your loved one SO MUCH. Give yourself permission to acknowledge and experience a range of emotions. It's okay to feel sadness, nostalgia, or even unexpected moments of joy. Allow yourself a good CRY. Embracing your emotions is a crucial step in the healing process.

Honor Your Loved One:

Consider holiday traditions that honor and celebrate the memory of your loved one. Lighting a candle in their memory, eating their favorite foods, sharing funny stories, creating a memory jar, or participating in activities that hold sentimental value can provide a meaningful connection to the your lost loved one.

Establish Boundaries:

Understand your limits and communicate them to others. It's okay to decline invitations or limit the duration of social engagements if you're not ready. When grieving, you should be given a major HALL PASS when it comes to social events. Communicating boundaries helps you prioritize self-care and navigate the holidays at a pace that feels comfortable for YOU.

Seek Support:

Reach out to trusted friends or family. Sharing your feelings and memories can be cathartic, and having a supportive network can provide comfort during challenging times.

Practice Self-Care:

The holiday season can be physically and emotionally demanding. Prioritize self-care by getting enough rest and engaging in activities that bring you comfort and solace. Spend time in the sun. Watch the movies that make you feel better (on repeat!). Eat the ice cream (yes, there are those of us who eat ice cream in winter!). Small acts of self-kindness can have a profound impact on your well-being.

While grief during the holidays can be challenging, it's essential to approach this time with self-compassion and understanding. By acknowledging your emotions, creating meaningful traditions, and seeking support, you can navigate the holiday season. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to grieve, and your journey is unique to you.

Read more about my grief counseling services can help you or contact me for a free 30 minute consultation.

Seanna Crosbie, LCSW-S