Coping with grief during the holidays

While the holiday season can be a time of joy and togetherness for many, it can also be an especially challenging time for those who have experienced a loss. If you’re coping with grief during the holidays or know someone who is, explore these tips from licensed therapist and co-founder of Ready.Set.Grow! S. Tia Brown:

1. Don’t try to avoid grieving your loss. It’s okay to experience sadness — even if the death wasn’t recent.
2. Find or create a space to honor your loved one. This can be in private, like at a prayer altar, or during a set time to honor those who’ve passed at a family gathering.
3. Be okay not being okay.There are times when grief requires you to take time out. Communicate with loved ones if you need to be alone to process your grief or need to miss some events — it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
4. Get support. Individual and/or group therapy is a great way to share your feelings and normalize the grieving process.
5. We grieve more than just death. Losing a relationship, job, or way of life can also cause sadness. Be open to receiving support if you’re having challenges dealing with a major life transition.