The holidays can be a very joyous time for some and a very difficult time for others. Managing the holiday season when we’ve lost someone close to us can make this time of year very difficult on our mental health. You are not alone in this. Losing a loved one is extremely difficult, and the reminder they are not on Earth anymore with us can be daunting during our first and every subsequent holiday without them. Here are some helpful ideas to navigate this holiday season without a loved one, as our grief comes and goes in waves, and this is okay.

1. It is okay to rethink or put on hold certain traditions, and to try something new. It is equally okay to maintain traditions to honour your missing loved one.

2. You can visit your loved one wherever their soul is present and honour their spirit by lighting a candle, holding a seat at the table or just simply speaking to them during the holiday season.

3. There is no timeline for grief, and it’s okay to feel a range of emotions. All feelings and emotions are valid.

4. Honour your loved one and include their memory during the holiday season, with activities such as: making their favourite recipe, creating a memory wreath, playing their favourite holiday music, or watching their favourite holiday movie.

5. If you’re spending this holiday alone, due to a loss of a loved one such as a spouse, try to connect with other family members, friends, or neighbours during the season to avoid feelings of isolation.

6. Meet with a counsellor to discuss your feelings during this difficult time.