The Holidays can be a difficult time, even for those who are not experiencing grief. There are so many expectations, traditions and activities that must be met, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. For those who are grieving, the holidays can be a particularly difficult time. Holiday stress can be even more acute for those who have lost a loved one, as the holidays are often filled with memories of happier times. It is important to remember that you are not alone, and there are many resources available to help you through this difficult time.

Grief is a natural response to loss. The grieving process is an essential part of healing, but it can be a challenging time for anyone coping with loss. The holiday season can be particularly difficult for those in the midst of grief.

Grief can be triggered by many things, including:

Losing someone close to you through death or illness
Divorce or separation (including marital infidelity)
Job loss — either voluntarily or involuntarily
Change in health status (such as losing mobility after a stroke)
Stress associated with the holidays (expectations, financial strain, family tension)

If you're grieving during this time of year, here are some tips to help you cope:

Give yourself permission to feel sad or angry. You don't have to hide your feelings or pretend everything is okay when it's not.
Remind yourself that you're not alone — many people experience grief at this time of year and may be feeling similar emotions as well.
Be kind to yourself — even though it's important not to push through your grief, it's also important not to give yourself too much leeway either. Set expectations for yourself so that you don't feel guilty if things don't go perfectly according to plan and make sure that you take care of your health by eating well and getting enough sleep.
Create your own holiday traditions - while the traditional holiday experience may be challenging for someone who is grieving, it's possible to create your own traditions that are meaningful and enjoyable. If you've lost a loved one, it can be helpful to spend time with family and friends who were close to the person who died. If you are alone for the holidays, create your own traditions that feel meaningful and fulfilling. Watching your favorite movie, going on a walk with your pet, or cooking your favorite meal are a few examples.
Create boundaries with yourself and the individuals you are celebrating with - it can be difficult to balance the holiday spirit and your grief, so it's important to set boundaries. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the celebrations around you, take a break from them. You don't have to explain why you need time alone - just say that you want some "me" time. It's also important to set boundaries on what is acceptable behavior during the holidays. If someone makes comments about your loss or tries to rush you through your grief process, tell them that it's not okay for them to do so. Set boundaries with yourself as well. It's okay to feel angry or sad - don't let anyone tell you otherwise. It's also okay to say no if someone asks you to do something that doesn't feel right for your mental health.
Seek additional support through individual and group therapy. It's important to have a network of support around you as you work through your grief. Consider individual therapy if you feel like talking with a professional is helpful, or join a support group where others who have lost loved ones can share their experiences.