For most people, holidays are a happy, festive time of year. But, for those facing holidays after the loss of a loved one, it can be lonely, depressing, and often difficult to handle. Holidays or not, it is important for you to find a way to take care of yourself.
Scroll down for a downloadable care worksheet, complimentary online support groups, Tree of Life: Season of Light information, plus additional coping tips and resources.
An inclusive and informative presentation created by Samaritan to help you and those you care about cope with holidays following the loss of a loved one. The presentation focuses on meaning making, coping, communication, and compassion for self and others, suggestions for self-care, and holiday-related concerns due to COVID-19. © 2023 Samaritan.
Click here to download Samaritan’s Coping with Holidays Care Kit. Use this worksheet to remember your loved one, explore gifts, self-care, and those who support you.
Celebrate your loved ones by donating a symbolic light on Samaritan’s annual Tree of Life. Due to COVID-19, we will be hosting a virtual illumination program this year. Learn More
Be good to yourself. Slow down your pace. Plan your schedule ahead of time so you can scale back on activities if you want too.
Acknowledge your loss. Select a candle in your loved one’s favorite color and scent. Place it in a special area of your home and light it at a significant time throughout the holidays. Put together a photo album or collage, visit your loved one’s grave, or write a poem.
Give yourself permission to express your feelings. If you feel the urge to cry, let the tears flow. Tears are healing. Talk to your family and friends about your feelings.
Don’t feel guilty if you find yourself enjoying yourself around the holidays. It is not disrespectful to the memory of your loved one.
Celebrate life. Attend a holiday or religious service if faith is part of your life. Recognize it is acceptable to create new traditions.
Embrace your memories and find comfort in them.
Relax and meditate to a variety of videos including Zen meditation, beach-themed and forest-themed guided meditation, self-massage tips, and readings from the Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo.
Find additional resources from Samaritan and other leading grief-support.