Coping with Grief During the Holiday Season

The holidays can be particularly challenging when you’re grieving. This season, often filled with festivities and togetherness, can feel isolating when everyone around you expects joy, but you’re wrestling with loss. Whether it’s your first year without a loved one or your fifteenth, grief has a way of resurfacing during these times, making it hard to “fake the funk” or pretend you’re happy.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

Grief is not linear—it comes in waves. Some days, you may feel fine, and on others, it may hit you like a tidal wave. A memory, a song, or even a random moment can trigger emotions that bring you to tears. Allow yourself to release those feelings. Cry, vent, journal—whatever helps you process. Stuffing emotions doesn’t make them disappear; it often intensifies them later. Give yourself grace on the harder days. It’s okay not to have it all together. On days you feel capable, do what you can. On days you can’t, let yourself rest without guilt.

Be Honest About Your Needs

Communicate with loved ones about how they can support you. Don’t be afraid to share when you’re struggling. Grieving doesn’t mean you need to bear the weight alone. Lean on your circle for understanding and help. If self-care like eating, showering, or sleeping feels impossible then consider reaching out to a mental health professional. They can help you process your emotions and navigate this new normal.

Grieving More Than Death

Grief isn’t reserved solely for losing someone to death. Many people grieve the life they imagined. Perhaps you come from a broken family that doesn’t gather for the holidays, or childhood trauma makes family gatherings painful. Maybe you long for a close relationship with your mother, but it doesn’t exist. You might grieve dreams unfulfilled, like the hope of having children that hasn’t or won’t ever come to pass. Or perhaps you’re mourning the path you imagined for a loved one who is struggling with addiction.

Whatever your story, acknowledge the pain. It’s okay to grieve what could have been. Be honest about your feelings. Write them down, talk to a trusted friend, or simply sit with your emotions. Grieving isn’t about “getting over” what’s lost but learning to carry the memories and the pain alongside the life you’re building.

Honor Their Memory

For those grieving someone who has passed, cherish and honor their memory. Reflect on the good times, and let their impact remain a part of your life. If you’re a person of faith, lean into the comfort of knowing there is a God who sees your pain and is ready to carry it with you. Surrender your pain to Him, and trust that He is there, offering love and peace. For loved ones who are still alive but struggling, don’t stop praying for them. Prayer is powerful, even when circumstances feel impossible.

Grace for the Journey

Grief is hard. Some days, the pain feels unbearable. You may find yourself overwhelmed by memories of things left unsaid or the time you wish you had together. On other days, you may feel a surprising sense of peace. The journey is unpredictable, but grace is key. Grace to feel. Grace to heal. Grace to ride the waves of grief without rushing the process or judging yourself.

May the good Lord wrap His loving arms around you, comforting you in your moments of sorrow. Grief is a reflection of love, and while it’s painful, it’s also a testament to the depth of your connection. Hold onto that truth as you navigate this season.