How to Get Through the Holidays When You’re Grieving

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What makes this festive time truly meaningful, though, is the company you celebrate with.

Graphic of family celebrating holidays in blue background

CSA-Printstock/Getty Images/Amanda K Bailey

So if youre grieving, the season can quickly become clouded by painful realizations of whator rather whois missing.

Dont beat yourself up if youre not in the mood to celebrate or socialize this year.

Or, if youre too overwhelmed to host your annual New Years Eve party, thats fine too.

You have to give yourself grace and permission to accept that change is okay, Moffa adds.

So dont be discouraged if [this year] doesnt feel quite right.

For me, it was church, Dr. Cormier says.

I just couldnt go for a year or two.

The goal isnt to completely eliminate these reminders from your life, Dr. Cormier emphasizes.

Maybe go to a concert, get a massage, or buy a newbook, Dr. Cormier suggests.

Just keep in mind that folks who arent dealing with grief may not fully understand what youre going through.

Still, its also important that you dont completely isolate yourself during such a vulnerable time.

(In fact,researchhas shown thatsocial supportcan help people cope with loss.)

ensure to maintain in-person interactions with those you care about most, Dr. Cormier says.

Maybe, by some miracle, you actually find yourself cracking a smilechuckling even.

Until it hits you: How can you possibly be having a good time without your special person?

That may sound a little cheesy, but its the truth.

And dont worry, well spare you from those other cliche inspirational quotes that are meant to uplift you.