Many people associate certain times each year with a sad time in their life. This may be due to depression, loneliness, redundancy or the loss of a loved one.
For those who are grieving because of the death of a loved one, Christmas can be a particularly difficult time. The fact that someone you love is no longer with you to enjoy the celebrations can be unbearable and the pain can be acute. Instead of Christmas joy, the holidays are a reminder of heartache, loss and sadness as the memories come flooding back.
Everyone deals with grief differently, and what works for one person will not work for another. But it is a good idea to talk about your loved one, and make arrangements to go out with family and friends. If you find the Christmas festivities too difficult to bear, stay away from them until you feel stronger. Don’t be ashamed of your grief, and if you need to cry, go ahead. Do whatever you need to make things easier for yourself, and ask for help if you need it.
Many people find it helpful to volunteer during the holiday period such as helping at a homeless shelter or in a home for the elderly. While you are busy caring for other people, you won’t have time to dwell on your own feelings. Hopefully things will get easier with time and you will find comfort in the knowledge that you are helping those less fortunate.
In time, most people are able to find meaning in their life again. As each year passes, the pain will ease and you will find the strength to face the future.