Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. I am back with another blog. I’m almost getting the hang of writing them and posting them regularly, but it is still challenging to manage my time because procrastination is kicking my butt, to be honest. Thank you again for all of your patience!
It’s that time of year again — Thanksgiving and Christmas are around the corner. Today is Thanksgiving, and Christmas is 3 ½ weeks away. So, I want to talk about grieving during the holidays in today’s blog.
Understanding the Impact of Grief During the Holidays
The holiday season can be particularly challenging for those experiencing grief. The absence of loved ones during the holidays can cause immense sadness every year when holidays roll around. That’s why I want everyone to know that grieving during the holiday season is not only perfectly normal but also a shared experience that many of us go through.
Many people feel pressure to continue experiencing joy and happiness despite the holiday season. Those pressures can lead to isolation. It’s essential not to ignore your feelings while allowing yourself to grieve. You need to understand that you are not alone.
Creating New Traditions to Honor Loved Ones
I remember going to my Uncle R.J.’s house every Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. We would spend the holidays with our family and their friends. My cousin was born on Christmas Eve, so we spent the holidays with them every year. After that, we would drive down south to Ka’u and spend Christmas and New Years with my Aunty Colleen and Uncle Randy.
But when I left my grandma Nan’s house after graduating high school, the family traditions with me stopped. Then, when the family’s anchor, Nan, passed away, the family traditions stopped completely.
But you have to remember that you can start new traditions in memory of a loved one who passed. This can include lighting a candle in their memory, sharing stories of them with friends or other loved ones, or even preparing their favorite dish. All these rituals can help keep their memory alive so you can remember their impact on your life.
Practical Coping Strategies for Holiday Gatherings
When attending gatherings during the holidays, having a plan for managing your emotions can be helpful. Consider setting boundaries, such as taking breaks when things get overwhelming. It is essential to communicate with family so they know how to help you with the grieving process. You also have to consider your feelings and give yourself time to process them. Taking deep breaths can help you cope, and stepping outside for fresh air can do wonders during those moments that feel unmanageable.
Finding Support: Connecting with Others Who Understand
Getting support from other grieving individuals can be beneficial. You should also consider talking to your friend, a loved one, or even a counselor so they can help you deal with your feelings. You can even attend support groups that help you grieve.
Sharing your feelings with those who truly understand can give you comfort. These connections can help reduce feelings of isolation and remind you that it’s okay to grieve and seek help during tough times.
Embracing Self-Care During the Festive Season
Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity, especially when dealing with grief. If these emotions arise, you should do something helpful to ease the sadness. For example, you can try prioritizing activities you enjoy or doing something relaxing, from reading and walking to practicing mindfulness and meditation. Giving yourself time to recharge can be beneficial since it helps you cope with your emotions.
It’s okay to say no to events that may feel overwhelming. Taking care of your mental health and well-being should be your top priority before everything else.
Image VIA Unsplash
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