Grief and loss is something everyone goes through. And it is never easy. Especially during the holidays. One study found that almost six in ten Americans are grieving the loss of someone close to them within the past three years. Sadness, depression, inability to sleep, anger, and anxiety are ways that grief and loss show up in our lives.

When you’ve lost a family member or friend during the year, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year holidays can intensify the feelings of loss when faced with celebrating those holidays without them.  The number one method of coping during a season of grief or loss is to spend time with friends and family.

Everyone grieves differently. There is no set formula for getting through grief.

The five basic stages of grief and loss are:

1. Denial and isolation.
2. Anger
3. Bargaining
4. Depression
5. Acceptance

Interestingly, however, these are not necessarily sequential. One may experience any or all of these at a given time. Sometimes, so-called “mourning bombs,” hit at the least suspecting time, when a memory of a loved one triggers a sudden wave of loss, which may result in great sadness, or crying. One writer notes, “the best thing you can do is to allow yourself to feel the grief as it comes over you. Resisting it only will prolong the natural process of healing.”

This holiday season, give yourself the freedom to mourn. That might mean leaving a function early or not celebrating because it’s too painful. Maybe try doing something new, like serving at a food kitchen on Thanksgiving Day or going on a vacation instead of spending Christmas at home. The change of scenery can be extremely beneficial in the grieving process.

All ABT Counseling staff are expertly trained to treat patients who are struggling with Grief and Loss.

You don’t have to go through it alone. Call us. We can help.

For more info or to schedule an appointment, click here.