Grief and Loss, Sadness, Loneliness During the Holidays

Post by: Grant Gear

The holiday season may surface different emotions as a reminder of our past or current relationships. Grief and loss, sadness, and loneliness may become stronger during the holidays. It can be a stark reminder of what the holiday season once was, or the potential of what it could be.

Our relationships throughout our life have an impact on our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Positive or negative relationships, they leave imprints on our nervous system and store them as experiences.

Think of a person, place, or thing that is (or was) a special moment in your life. What does that look like? Can you smell any scents or aromas that remind you of that special moment? Where do you feel it in your body? How does it make you feel? Our special moments may bring comfort to the grief and loss, sadness or loneliness during this holiday season.

Below are 6 additional tips that may help with grief and loss, sadness, and loneliness this holiday season:

1. Acknowledge your feelings. Don't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.

2. Practice mindfulness activities. Try yoga, meditation, reading; focus on the present.

3. Stay active. Getting out for a walk, or prioritizing time for an enjoyable activity.

4. Set realistic goals over the holiday season. Don't overwork yourself during the holiday season.

5. Talk to someone you trust about what's bothering you. Confide in someone you trust about how you're feeling during the holiday season.

6. Remember, if you continue to have a difficult time during the holiday season, you are not alone, the holiday season can be difficult for many.

Grant Gear (he/him) MSW, RSW is an IndigiQueer Inuit human, son, uncle, brother, social justice activist. He enjoys working with children, youth, adults, and families and is a certified Play Therapist. Grant is accepting clients in BC and NFLD. Interested in working with Grant? Book a free consultation.