Lights and Loss: A Guide to Grieving Through the Holidays
Have you recently experienced loss and are now wondering how to get through the holiday season? Grief during the holidays can cast a long and challenging shadow. As a mental health counselor, I understand that the festive cheer around us may not reflect the internal struggles many individuals face. The pressure to be joyful can intensify feelings of loss and longing. In this guide, we explore a roadmap through the complex terrain of grief during the holidays, offering insights and strategies to navigate this emotional journey.
How to Prioritize your Mental Health During the Holidays
If you have entered a Target in the past few weeks, you are aware that the holidays have arrived! The season of snowflakes and stress is here! As a parent to young children, I am acutely aware that the demands on me during this time of year are exceptionally high. There are gifts to purchase, pageants to practice for, parties to attend, programs to support, and opportunities to volunteer! In the midst of our demanding holiday schedule, we also want to make meaningful memories and celebrate the birth of our Savior in a tangible way. It really can feel like a lot of pressure to touch all of the bases and steward every opportunity well. For many, this season can also be an emotional hot bed as we navigate more time with extended family and balance everyone’s expectations. Here are some tips to help set the tone for a peaceful holiday season: