Christmas is usually seen as a joyful time for celebration and being together. But if you’re grieving, the season can feel especially hard. The pressure to be happy, along with reminders of family and quiet moments, can make your loss feel even more painful. Remember, grief doesn’t pause for the holidays, so it’s normal to find this time of year tough.
There’s no right or wrong way to grieve, but there are small steps you can take to get through the season with more room for your feelings.
1. Acknowledge your emotions
One of the kindest things you can do for yourself is accept what you’re feeling without judgment. You don’t have to force a smile or pretend everything is fine. Grief can rise in waves, especially during times that once held happy memories. Let yourself feel sad, angry, nostalgic or anything in between. Sharing your emotions with someone you trust may also help lighten the load.
2. Adjust your expectations
There are often unspoken expectations about how Christmas should look and feel. When you’re grieving, meeting those expectations can feel impossible.
Give yourself permission to simplify your plans. You might choose a quieter celebration, skip certain events or change traditions that feel too painful this year. Let friends and family know what you feel able to do, so they can understand and support your choices.
3. Create new traditions
Keeping old traditions can be comforting, but sometimes they remind you too much of the person you’ve lost. Starting new ones can be a nice way to remember your loved one. For example, you could light a candle in their memory, cook their favourite meal or hang a decoration that reminds you of them.
4. Seek connection and support
Grief can feel lonely, especially during a season focused on being together. Reaching out to others can really help. This could be family, close friends or a support group where people understand what you’re going through.
If you don’t feel like socialising, choose other forms of connection. A phone call, a walk with someone you trust, or even attending a community event for a short time can help you feel less alone. Talking to a professional, such as a counsellor, can also offer reassurance and guidance.
5. Take care of your wellbeing
When grief takes over, self-care can be easy to forget. But simple routines can help you feel steadier during tough times. Try to get enough rest, eat well and spend time outside. Take breaks when you need them and be honest about your energy. Even a short walk or a few quiet minutes can help you feel a bit better.
Grief has no set timeline, and it’s normal to feel it more strongly at Christmas. Be gentle with yourself, go at your own pace and remember you’re not alone. With support, new rituals and time for your feelings, you can get through the season in a way that feels easier for you.
Looking for compassionate probate advice?
When a loved one dies, it can be difficult – and the festive season can make it feel even harder. If you need support with probate, Hughes Probate is here to help. We understand how emotional this time can be and are ready to guide you through every step with care and understanding.
Get in touch for a compassionate, no-obligation chat about how Julie can support you.