In past years, the Christmas holiday season may have been a time of great anticipation and excitement …
but this year, the prospect of facing the holidays without your loved one may cause anxiety and dread.
You are not alone in these feelings.
At GriefShare, we have compiled practical ideas and words of encouragement and comfort to help you face the holiday season. These suggestions are from people who have experienced the loss of a loved one and have found ways during the holidays …
- to cope
- to take care of themselves physically, emotionally and spiritually
- to comfort and help others in need
- to remember and honor their loved one
- to build new traditions while remembering past traditions
- to focus on the true meaning of the holiday season
We invite you to read and download the following articles. We pray that they will be of help to you this holiday season.
Walking through the Holidays
Asking yourself the questions in this article can help you to identify and face the specific feelings and concerns you have about the coming holidays.
Survival Tips for Handling the Holidays
Practical ideas for surviving the deep sorrow and pain you may be experiencing this holiday season.
Holiday Helps for Grieving Families
Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the days become difficult for those who have lost loved ones. These helpful suggestions are from a woman who has experienced the death of her son.
Preparing for Christmas
Take care of yourself physically … celebrate Christmas in a simple manner … remember your loved one … serve others in need.
Building Memories at Christmas
Ways to honor and remember your loved one while keeping your focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
Lessons from a Christmas Tree
A GriefShare participant shares how he faced his first Christmas after the death of his wife.
Holidays and Other Special Times
Suggestions from GriefShare group leaders and participants on how to make it through these emotionally challenging days.
Helping Grieving Children through the Holidays
Your children may be confused and anxious about the holidays, even if they don’t express it. These ideas will help you and your children connect with each other and find a sense of peace and enjoyment in the coming days.
Connecting with People Helps Too!
Please consider visiting a GriefShare grief recovery support group at a church near you. The other people at GriefShare have an understanding of what you are facing this holiday season since the death of your loved one. They, too, have experienced a loved one’s death. At GriefShare you will learn about moving forward through the grief process, what to expect, how to cope, how to help others and how to accept God’s comfort.
To find a GriefShare group meeting near you, visit www.griefshare.org or call 800-395-5755.