Coping With Post-Holiday Grief: Finding Balance After the Festivities

The holidays can be an emotionally intense time for those grieving the loss of a child. While the season may bring moments of warmth, it can also highlight the absence of someone we deeply miss. As the decorations come down and the festivities end, the return to “normal life” can leave a profound sense of emptiness.

If you’re struggling with post-holiday grief, you’re not alone. Here are some gentle ways to cope and find balance as you navigate this challenging time:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

Grief can intensify after the holidays as distractions fade and quiet moments return. Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions arise—whether it’s sadness, anger, or relief. Remind yourself that these feelings are a natural part of the grieving process and don’t need to be “fixed.”

Affirmation: “It’s okay to feel this way. My emotions are valid.”

2. Prioritize Rest and Self-Care

The holiday season can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Post-holiday downtime is a chance to care for yourself. Focus on small, nurturing activities:

• Take a warm bath or enjoy a favorite comforting beverage.

• Catch up on sleep or spend time resting without guilt.

• Engage in activities that bring you peace, such as reading or listening to music.

3. Reflect on Meaningful Moments

The holidays may have been bittersweet, but reflecting on meaningful moments can provide comfort. Consider journaling or creating a memory jar where you record small, positive experiences from the season, even if they felt fleeting.

Prompt: “What small joys did I experience, and how can I carry those forward?”

4. Create Space for Healing

Returning to everyday routines can feel daunting after the emotional intensity of the holidays. Be intentional about creating space in your schedule to process your grief.

• Spend quiet time alone to reflect or meditate.

• Practice deep breathing to ground yourself when feelings of overwhelm arise.

• Try a creative outlet, like painting, writing, or photography, to express your emotions.

5. Reach Out for Connection

Grief can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or support group to share your thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there to listen can be a tremendous source of comfort.

If you’re not ready to talk, consider sending a message or writing a letter you don’t have to send. Connection can take many forms.

6. Honor Your Loved One

Find ways to honor the memory of your child after the holidays. This can be a healing way to keep their presence close as you transition back into daily life.

• Light a candle in their memory.

• Write a letter to them about your holiday experiences.

• Donate to a cause they cared about or volunteer in their honor.

7. Set Gentle Goals for the New Year

As the new year begins, avoid pressuring yourself to “move on” or achieve unrealistic resolutions. Instead, set small, manageable goals that align with your healing journey, such as:

• Journaling your feelings once a week.

• Taking short walks to clear your mind.

• Reaching out to someone for support when you feel ready.

Healing takes time. Move at your own pace.

You Are Not Alone

Post-holiday grief is a common experience, but it’s one that you don’t have to face by yourself. Healing takes time, and it’s okay to move at your own pace.

At the United By Loss Foundation, we’re here to walk this journey with you. Whether through our resources, support groups, or simply being a listening ear, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way.

Remember: Healing is not linear. Be patient with yourself and take each day as it comes.

If this resonates with you, or if you’d like to share your own experiences, we’d love to hear from you in the comments. Together, we can find comfort and hope in the new year ahead.