If you recently held a funeral for a loved one, the holidays will be full of memories and emotions. You may miss your family member at the dinner table or while opening presents or listening to seasonal music. If they particularly enjoyed celebrating, it may feel strange to enjoy activities without their presence. Despite the difficulty, you can cope with strength and resilience. Here are a few strategies for making the most of the season and honoring their memory. 

Ways to Cope at the Holidays After a Funeral 

1. Spend Time With Friends & Family 

You may not want to get out and socialize, but friends and family members will provide you with the love and support you need. They will also offer a much-needed distraction on the most difficult days. It’s okay to rest and spend time in quiet reflection, but pair it with a few hours of dinner and dessert with your family.

2. Honor Holiday Traditions 

Everyone celebrates the holidays differently. Your loved one may have enjoyed baking different types of cookies, buying a yearly advent calendar, or going ice skating. Engage in their favorite activities to honor their memory. It will help you connect with their unique spirit and personality. It will also make you feel like you’re doing something special for them. 

3. Speak With a Counselor 

A mental health counselor or family therapist can help you process your emotions from the funeral and death, so you can deal with the grief in a healthy way. Establish a relationship with a professional you trust before the holidays arrive, then schedule weekly sessions until they are complete. By letting your sadness and frustration out in a safe place, you will feel more capable of enjoying yourself at family celebrations and find it easier to cope while you’re alone. A provider will also monitor you for signs of depression, so you can receive treatment if necessary. 

Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences a person will ever face. When you need to make cremation arrangements or require help with funeral planning, Frederick Funeral Home in Colerain Township, OH, is ready to assist you. Since 1932, their funeral home has offered families throughout Hamilton County the comfort, guidance, and skilled assistance they need. To discuss a cremation or funeral with their compassionate staff, call (513) 522-3700. For more information about their planning options, visit their website.