Finding comfort at Christmas when you’re grieving
For most people, Christmas is a time of joy, family and celebration. But for those grappling with grief, this time of year can amplify feelings of sadness, longing and isolation.
Coping with loss during Christmas doesn’t mean ignoring your pain – it’s about finding ways to navigate through it while acknowledging your emotions and loved ones. Read our latest GriefLine blog for our tips on how to cope with grief during the festive season.
1. Normalise your feelings
It’s okay to feel sad, angry or overwhelmed. Grief doesn’t take a holiday and forcing yourself to ‘be merry’ won’t make the pain disappear. Allow yourself the space to process your emotions without guilt.
2. Set boundaries
Christmas traditions and gatherings can be exhausting when you’re grieving. Don’t feel obligated to attend every event or follow every tradition. Communicate your needs to family and friends and let them now what feels manageable to you.
3. Honour your loved one
Finding ways to incorporate your loved one’s memory can be healing. Light a candle in their honour, hang a special bauble that reminds you of them on the Christmas tree, or set aside time to share stories and memories. Small acts of remembrance can bring comfort.
4. Focus on self-care
Amidst all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, try to prioritise your wellbeing. Rest when you need to, eat nourishing meals and engage in activities that bring you peace, such as walking, journaling or meditating.
5. Lean on support
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, coming along to a St Clare Hospice bereavement café, or calling GriefLine, connecting with others can ease the loneliness of loss.
And remember, grief doesn’t have a timeline. It’s okay for Christmas to look and feel different this year, but by embracing both the sorrow and moments of joy, you can find a way to honour your feelings and the season.
GriefLine Open Hours
During the Christmas and New Year period, the GriefLine open hours are as follows:
- Monday 23rd December – Open from 8am to 5pm
- Tuesday 24th December – Open from 8am to 8pm
- Wednesday 25th December – Closed for Christmas Day
- Thursday 26th December – Closed for Boxing Day
- Friday 27th December – Open from 8am – 5pm
- Saturday 28th December – Not available at weekends
- Sunday 29th December – Not available at weekends
- Monday 30th December – Open from 8am to 5pm
- Tuesday 31st December – Open from 8am to 8pm
- Wednesday 1st January – Closed for New Year’s Day
- Thursday 2nd January – Open from 8am to 8pm
If you need to speak to someone about how you are feeling when GriefLine is unavailable, we recommend reaching out to:
Cruse Bereavement Support who you can call on 0808 808 1677.
Samaritans who you can call on 116 123.
