8 Ways To Get Through The Holidays While You’re Grieving A Lost Loved One

1. Start a new tradition.

This year marks the second Christmas without my mom. I made a promise to myself that each year I will buy a new ornament in memory of her. It will be like I never spend a Christmas without her.

2. Don’t avoid or cancel the holiday.

Although it is so hard and different without our lost loved ones here, we must remember that they would still want us to continue on a happy life—not only around Christmas time but all the time.

3. Have a good cry and let it all out.

If you feel like crying, cry. If you feel like screaming, scream. Let it out. Don’t hold the pain and sadness in; talk to a friend about it.

4. Make a difference.

Volunteering or helping people who are struggling will often result in you feeling better about yourself. Spend some time at a local soup kitchen, donate a toy to a toy drive, or even send an old friend a Christmas card or a small gift. I promise you it will make you feel better.

5. In place of buying your lost loved one a gift, buy something for yourself.

Shopping has a magical way of lifting our spirits. This holiday season consider buying something for yourself.

6. Start a “holiday journal.”

I love writing and sharing my thoughts with people. Consider starting a journal and each Christmas write down what you did, how you made it through, and one memory of your loved one. Each year you can look back and see how far you have come.

7. Remember you’re not alone in your grief.

Although you may feel no one is hurting as bad as you are, there are so many other people who share the same pain. Join a holiday grief support group or even ask a friend to chat.

8. Know that life goes on.

We must remember that even though we would sometimes like life to stop, it will never stop for anybody or anything. Continue on your life and honor of your loved one not only this holiday season, but every day of your life.