It’s not easy dealing with the grief during the holiday season. The happy family gatherings and bright, cheerful lights that once brought joy now only produce a sense of loss that seems impossible to overcome. But, there is hope. Here’s a guide that lists several techniques for coping with your grief and facing the holidays so soon after a funeral service.

How to Cope With Grief During the Holidays

Set Boundaries

While going out may not be the first thing that’s on your mind, hiding away at home isn’t a healthy alternative. Start by sorting through the invitations and determining which events you’ll be attending. If there are any that may cause painful memories to surface, then it might be best to gracefully decline. This will give you time to grieve the loss without becoming completely isolated during the holiday season.

Seek Support

Even though you may have decided to attend, it can still be a little nerve-wracking to actually step out of the house and go. Give yourself some peace of mind by having a plan in place. Catch a ride with a close friend who’s willing to leave at a moment’s notice or bring your own car to the event. The ability to drive home whenever you want to will make it easier to venture out and will prevent exhaustion.

Start Traditions

Keep your loved one’s memory alive by finding a way to include them in your holiday traditions. Make one of their favorite meals the night before the actual holiday or volunteer a few hours to serve in a local soup kitchen. You could also visit one of their favorite places and raise a toast in their honor. No matter how small these activities may seem, the steps you take following a funeral service will ensure that they remain a part of the celebration.

Families throughout the Rochester, NY, area know that they can rely on Leo M. Bean And Sons Funeral Home for compassionate funeral services. They’re a family-owned funeral home that has been in the business for over 40 years. Their funeral directors are fully licensed and work to provide clients with the quality memorial services, cremations, and traditional burials that their loved ones deserve. Call (585) 426-7830 to start the process of planning a funeral service. Obtain more information about this local funeral home by visiting their website.