Navigating Grief During the Holidays

This holiday season may feel especially heavy as you navigate them without your loved one. Grief has its own timeline, and this time of year can amplify the sense of loss, making everything feel more raw or different than what you’re used to. It’s completely natural to feel a mix of emotions—sadness, anger, confusion, or even numbness—and none of them diminish the depth of your love or the importance of your grief.

During this time, it’s essential to be gentle with yourself. There’s no right way to “do” the holidays when you’re grieving, and it’s okay to honor the absence you’re feeling. If you feel like you need to create new traditions or take a step back from old ones, that’s perfectly valid. You may also find comfort in continuing some of the traditions that bring a sense of connection to your loved one, or you may choose to skip them altogether—whatever feels right for you.

Give yourself permission to feel whatever arises. And when it feels overwhelming, lean on those who care about you. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support, whether it’s through talking with family or friends, or finding moments to process your feelings with a counsellor.

Above all, remember that your grief is a reflection of the love you shared, and that love remains, even when the person is no longer physically with you. You’re allowed to grieve, to celebrate, or to rest—whatever helps you through this tender season.

At Clarity, we send you warmth, compassion, and peace as you navigate this difficult holiday season. You are not alone in your grief.

Practical Ideas for Coping and Healing During the Holidays

• Create a Memory Ritual: Lighting a candle in honour of your loved one, hanging an ornament with their name on it, or sharing a memory with family or friends can be a meaningful way to include them in the holiday experience.

• Volunteer or Give Back: Sometimes, shifting focus from personal grief to helping others can provide a sense of purpose and comfort. Many people find solace in volunteering during the holidays.

• Give Yourself Permission to Skip or Modify Traditions: It’s okay to step back from holiday traditions or adjust them to suit where you are emotionally. Letting yourself grieve without the added pressure to "celebrate" is essential for healing.

• Engage in Self-Care: Consider activities that nurture your mental and emotional well-being, like journaling, meditation, yoga, or simply spending time outdoors. Gentle activities can help provide moments of relief and connection to your own heart.

  
  

Online Support Groups

• Grief Support Facebook Groups: There are numerous grief support groups on Facebook that focus on navigating the holidays after a loss. Many are specific to types of loss (spouse, parent, child, etc.), and they can offer shared experiences and coping strategies.

• Reddit - Grief Support Communities: Reddit has several grief-related subreddits, like r/GriefSupport and r/Grief, where people share their stories, find comfort, and give each other advice. It’s an anonymous way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

  
  

Creative Outlets for Grief

• Memory Boxes or Scrapbooks: Creating something tangible like a scrapbook or memory box filled with letters, photos, and mementos can be a therapeutic way to honour your loved one.

• Write a Letter or Journal: Writing a letter to your loved one or journaling about your emotions can provide an outlet for grief that feels personal and healing.

• Art Therapy: Art can be a powerful form of expression. Many people find creating something—whether it’s drawing, painting, or crafting—helps process grief.

  
  

Local Support Groups

• Many hospitals, hospices, and funeral homes offer grief support groups specifically designed to help people navigate their first holiday season without a loved one. These groups can be a great way to find community and share your feelings.

  
  

Online Support and Articles

• Canadian Virtual Hospice: Online grief support and resources for individuals coping with the loss of a loved one. They provide articles, virtual support groups, and one-on-one grief counselling.

  Website: www.virtualhospice.ca

• The Canadian Grief Alliance: Provides support to people experiencing grief. They offer resources and information on grief and loss, including during the holiday season.

  Website: www.canadiangriefalliance.com

• Hospice Palliative Care Ontario (HPCO): Provides grief and bereavement support, offering local grief services, including during the holiday season. They also provide a list of community resources for individuals experiencing loss.

  Website: www.hpco.ca

Books on Grief During the Holidays

• "Healing Your Grieving Heart During the Holidays" by Alan D. Wolfelt

  This book offers compassionate guidance for coping with grief during the holidays, acknowledging the pain and providing practical suggestions for navigating the season.

• "The Year of Magical Thinking" by Joan Didion

  A beautifully written memoir that explores grief and loss after the death of Didion's husband, offering deep insights into the emotions people experience during the early stages of mourning.

• "Surviving the Holidays Without You" by Gary Roe

  A supportive guide offering advice and encouragement for people grieving the loss of a loved one, particularly focused on navigating the holidays.

  
  

These resources aim to provide comfort and practical guidance, while acknowledging the unique and often painful experience of grieving during the holidays. It’s important to honor your feelings, take your time, and seek out support when needed.

If you’re struggling with grief, please know that the counsellors at Clarity can help. Counselling can provide a safe space to express your feelings, find comfort, and navigate this challenging time. You don’t have to go through it alone—reach out for help when you’re ready.