Cremation services Willoughby Hills, OH, and losing someone close to your heart is a very difficult experience in life. Often, the first holiday season without the loved one is the toughest.
No matter where you’re spending the holidays, the unexpected swells of grief can threaten to overwhelm anyone. Looking at the empty seat where the deceased would sit and missing all their joyful talks and life-lessons can take a toll on you.
If you’re experiencing grief for the lost loved one, here are some tips on how to navigate the busy holiday season healthily and positively:
1. Don’t Suppress Your Emotions
Many people try to hide or run away from their feelings. That is not a good idea. It’s natural to feel a mix of confusing emotions including anger, sadness, guilt, or regret. Always express your emotion and let your soul feel everything which is the first step towards beginning to work through your grief journey.
You may need a private space to get hold of yourself but try to be open with your friends about how you are feeling. Don’t come too hard on yourself and give freedom to yourself to feel everything – good and bad. It is going to ease the grief journey.
2. Reminisce the Happy and Good Memories
Psychologists argue that sharing some of your favorite memories of the deceased proves to ease the grief journey.
Because it’s the holidays, it’s better to focus on positive memories. So, try to bring up some funny and happy memories, not just the loss, with the people around you. Doing so will also include your loved ones in the festivities of the holiday season.
3. Understand the Grief Process
Grief is not a linear process and it’s completely natural to feel a mix of emotions. Generally, there are five stages of grief, namely: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
These phases are independent of the timeframe and can occur in any order. Just because a person has moved on quickly does not imply that you should have also gotten past the grief journey. Remember that no two persons grieve in the same way. Instead of indulging in numbing or unhealthy activities, try to acknowledge your loss and spend more time in the company of your loved ones.
4. How to Cope with Grief
It’s too common to experience overwhelming grief during your first holiday season without the loved one. Try to cope with it positively and focus on things you can control.
If certain family traditions are too difficult for you, just say no. Set healthy boundaries and get involved in activities that make you happy such as watching or playing your favorite sports, going out on a hike, and so on.
Remember that no one deserves to be alone and cope with grief during the holiday season. But certain things are beyond your control, so make your peace with them. Give yourself the space to acknowledge your emotions, be they happy or sad. Things will get better after cremation services Willoughby Hills, OH. Contact us today.