For many, the holiday season is a time filled with excitement, gifts, delicious meals, and celebration, but for those who have suffered the loss of their beloved, holidays can be especially difficult. For those grieving, the holidays become a secondary loss, in that “death does not just create a single hole in one’s life. Instead it can impact many areas, creating multiple losses,” such as the loss of holiday celebrations with a loved one.
For those experiencing secondary loss, heartache, and complicated holiday-related feelings, you are not alone. For those who worry that the holidays will never feel joyful again, you are not alone. For those who miss how your loved one made you feel during the holidays, you are not alone. We see you and acknowledge that while this is a joyful time for many, it is a difficult time for you.
If you know someone who is grieving this holiday season, check-in, ask how you might be able to support them, and be present with them in their pain. This might just be the best gift you could give a loved one this holiday season.
Below is a link to an article about secondary loss around the holidays, which provides insights into coping with these complicated feelings. We want you to know that you are in our hearts as we navigate this complicated season together.
