Dealing with the death of a loved one at any time of the year is traumatic, but the pain seems compounded at the start of a new year. The prospect of facing a fresh 12-month period without the presence of a person who meant so much to you can be overwhelming. Though you may feel especially alone once the funeral service ends and everyone goes home, it’s important to remember that is not the case; there are resources available that offer support and help you cope as you process your grief. Here’s some information that might help you get through this difficult time.

How to Handle a New Year While Dealing With Loss

What Makes the New Year So Difficult?

You will experience different stages of grief, some of which are affected by things that are out of your control—such as the time of year. In the first days of a new year, you might feel a fresh wave of sorrow that is as intense as the sadness you experienced during the funeral service. You may recall special moments ringing in previous years with the person, or plans that they made for the coming months that were not realized. It can be heartbreaking, and it’s fully understandable that you feel overwhelmed.

What Are Some Ways to Handle This Pain?

You don’t have to navigate this uncharted territory on your own. Reach out to others who are also grieving, like family and friends. Turn to those who attended the funeral service and expressed their condolences. They might have memories to share, or simply offer you their ear and a friendly hug. So much comfort can derive from the company of others, even if you just sit in silence. Consider channeling your grief in a productive way by creating a list of the life lessons they shared with you before passing away. You might find solace in leaning on their memory, using what they brought to your life to help you during a moment of great need. This can help you realize that they are still there to guide you.

How Can You Deal When You Feel Lost?

You might find you feel especially sensitive to “Happy New Year” wishes, or recoil when people ask how you celebrated the holiday. This is when you allow yourself permission to rest and heal. Enjoy your alone time, or stay with a close friend who knows just what to say. Many funeral homes offer grief support services, which you can ask about as you plan the funeral or following the burial or cremation. Above all, be patient and kind to yourself. Treasure the relationship and take inspiration from all that your loved one left behind for you—the memories, the lessons, the jokes, the heart-to-heart conversations. Those will remain with you for a lifetime.

Since the 1860s, Middendorf Funeral Home has served northern Kentucky families during their times of grief. The family-owned business is staffed by compassionate, experienced professionals who understand just how difficult it is to plan a funeral and make decisions about burials or cremations. This is why, in addition to planning funeral services, they also provide resources for grief support. Visit them online to learn more, or call (859) 341-7800.