The Holidays – No One Grieves the Same Way

Experiencing grief during the holidays can be especially challenging. One of the most challenging aspects is we each grieve differently. Although men, women, adolescents and children mourn differently from one another, none of those ways is inappropriate.

As the holidays approach you or some members of the family may not want to celebrate the holidays with the same traditions. Grief during the holidays effects each person in a unique way. We ask that you treat each other with understanding and patience even if this is not a recent loss.

Continue Your Normal Holiday Traditions

If you traditions include pulling out all the stops and going for a Martha Stewart styled Thanksgiving and Christmas then have at it. Don’t let the fact that you are experiencing grief during the holidays dull your spirit if that is what feels good and right to you.

In my family, my father’s tradition was to buy each of a “gift” from the dog. It started when we were all kids and had gotten a new puppy. We were given things like a roll of paper towels, carpet cleaner and dog treats. It has become a grown up tradition in our family now. And even though my dad passed away five years ago, we still continue the custom.

Create New Family Traditions

Sometimes breaking from your normal holiday celebrations can actually be a relief. About 10 years ago when a close friend lost her mother the entire family agreed to switch things up. Instead of the regular activities of carols and gifts and a huge tree, they took the show on the road. They selected to have their annual gathering in their daughter’s home a few hours away. So, even though each of them were going through a difficult transition and experiencing grief during the holidays they were making new traditions and memories.

In Closing

Keep in mind each of us will grieve in our own unique way and each person’s feelings and thoughts should be kept in mind when planning for the holiday.

What’s Next? Start Healing!

It’s never too early or too late to take the first step toward healing. You are invited to schedule a free 15-minute consultation or sign up for an upcoming Grief Recovery Support Group in Wichita, Kansas.