Celebrate Your Lost Loved One During the Holiday Season

When a someone you love passes on, the holidays can be painful, sad, and can make you anxious and dreadful of the days ahead. It can be difficult to be around other people, and it can also be difficult to be alone too. Either way, I'm sure that your angel would want you to be happy joyful, and smiling as you remember the good times you shared. To work toward that peaceful feeling, find a way to celebrate your loved one's life this holiday season.

The memories of the good and bad times that you shared with that person can sometimes cause more pain and sadness, but as you think of them you will find something silly or touching that will warm your heart and give you a bit of joy. Incorporating that loving feeling into your holidays can help you to heal.

Let Your Faith Guide You

No matter who or what you believe in, you can use prayer and your spiritual beliefs to help you get through trying or lonely times when you miss your loved one. Sometimes, those feelings are magnified at special times like holidays, and more time spent in prayer and meditation is needed to keep you calm and balanced. Don't be afraid to take the time you need for prayer.

Hold onto the understanding that your loved one is at peace and remind yourself that the struggles they faced here in their lifetime are no more. There is comfort in those thoughts.

Dwell on the Happy Times

Of course, you miss your loved one, but you also have the joy of having known that person for a period of time.

Use these tips to help you focus on your happy times together:

1. Cherish what you had. When the holidays come around and you start to get sad over what you don't have, think about all the times you did have. What would your loved one want you to remember about him or her?

2. Focus your energy on being joyful for what was. Whether you had your loved one a long period of time or a short one, you had love in your life for that time. That's a very precious gift. Elevate the value of that gift by savoring the happy moments you remember.

3. Remember the good times. Everyone has memories of their loved ones that make them smile or that they re-live again and again. Take those memories out and look at them over the holidays.

4. Do what's in your heart. You might like to hang up your loved one's stocking at Christmastime, light a candle for them, or make a favorite food or dessert. Or you may want to have your celebration alone, either way only do what is comfortable for you.

Mourning is part of the healing process, but remember to celebrate, too. Everyone does things differently when it comes to how they want to show their love for someone who has gone on before them. Focus on a celebration that feels right to you. No matter what it is, if it's right for you, then it's perfect for the occasion.

Everyone is different, and some people might not understand what you're doing or why, and that's okay. Honor your loved one and celebrate their life in a way that brings you joy and peace this holiday.

Peace and Blessings

If you are still having a hard time or your depressive or anxious symptoms increase, please reach out to your healthcare provider for help.