Dealing with Holiday Grief

Lord, We Believe Your Word, Which Tells Us That Weeping May Endure For A Night, But Joy Comes In The Morning. Help Us Make It Through The Night. Amen.

- Dr. Rocky Brown

I don't know if you have noticed that the newspaper's obituary section is much larger. There seem to be a lot more people dying this time of the year. My grandmother would say it's because the year must take its toll.

Regardless of the reason, I know that during the holiday season, many of us have to deal with death and grieve the loss of a loved one.

Now, holidays can be challenging when we are grieving. Our culture often sets up unrealistic expectations around the holidays that can rarely be met. Knowing, accepting, and communicating our limitations to ourselves and others during the holidays can be helpful and liberating. Here are a few tips for those of you who are grieving to get you through the holiday season:

1. The anxiety approaching the holiday or holiday season can sometimes be more challenging than the holiday itself.

2. Deep breathing, rest, and drinking plenty of water can help sustain the body during times of stress. The stress of the season can take a toll on our bodies.