Losing someone special can be an overwhelming experience that you will never forget. You may find yourself thinking more about your loved one during the holiday season, which could exacerbate feelings of loss, sadness, and grief. Though these emotions can be difficult to overcome, funeral directors share ways you can cope with your pain. 

How to Manage Grief During the Holidays

1. Surround Yourself With Supportive Friends & Family

Memories about your loved one don’t have to be painful. In fact, memories can be a source of comfort, especially when shared with close friends and relatives. During the holidays, spend time with people who support you, and don’t be afraid to tell stories or share fond memories. 

2. Express Yourself

Though you shouldn’t avoid all social interactions, it’s okay if you do not wish to participate in every festivity or celebratory tradition that is available to you. Decline to engage in activities that will be too painful. 

3. Allow Yourself to Feel

The holiday season can generate a wide range of emotions. You may feel everything from sadness to happiness to grief within minutes. This fluctuation of feelings is perfectly normal, so allow them to flow without judging yourself. 

4. Set New Traditions

The holidays are a good time to honor the life of your loved one with a new tradition. For instance, you can light a candle in their memory, enjoy their favorite meal, write a few words of remembrance, or leave an empty seat and place setting at a holiday feast. Do something that brings you comfort.

5. Seek Assistance

If you find yourself struggling to manage your grief, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Local support groups and professional grief counselors can help you healthily deal with your emotions.

If you’re having a difficult time coping with the passing of a loved one, the professionals at Shirley Brothers Mortuaries & Crematory-Washington Memorial Chapel in Indianapolis, IN, offer 24-hour online grief counseling and other materials to help you during your time of need. In addition to their online counsel, their funeral directors will assist you with planning funeral, memorial, or cremation services so that you can celebrate the life of your loved one without additional stress. To reach out to a helpful staff member, call (317) 897-9606 or visit this funeral home online today.