Holidays can be tough time for grief

But for those struggling with the death of a loved one, the holidays are a difficult time full of painful reminders that may magnify their sense of loss.

Holiday songs on the radio catch you in the car. TV commercials reflecting Norman Rockwell images of the season come into your living room. Homes are decked with lights and wreaths. Sounds and sights of the holidays may seem inescapable. Coping with grief at such a time seems discordant with the world around you. Feelings of loss tend to be intensified.

A suggestion for coping with grief during the holidays, according to Hospice officials, is to give yourself permission to do what’s comfortable. At a time of year often guided by tradition, find the way that feels right for you to make it through the season. Some people find it helpful to be with family and friends, emphasizing the familiar. Others may wish to avoid old traditions and try something different. Others will find new ways to acknowledge the season.

Hospice professionals offer some additional suggestions for coping with the holidays:

• Plan for the approaching holidays. This might be a difficult time for you. The additional stress may affect you emotionally, cognitively, and physically. This is a normal reaction. Be prepared and be gentle to yourself.

• Recognize that the holidays might not be the same. Expecting everything to seem the same might lead to disappointment. Doing things a bit differently can acknowledge the change while preserving continuity with the past.

• Be careful not to isolate yourself. It’s all right to take time for yourself but don’t cut yourself off from the support of family and friends.

• The holidays may affect other family members. Talk over your plans and share your feelings. Respect other’s choices and needs, and compromise if necessary.

• Avoid additional stress. Decide what you really want to do, and what can be avoided.

If you, or a loved one, are struggling with grief and loss, consider contacting Lazarus House Hospice. Lazarus House, The Hospice of the Upper Cumberland, has trained bereavement professionals on staff and may be able to offer some further suggestions or sources of support.

Additional information about hospice is available at www.lhhospice.org or call 1-800-468-4123.