Grief During the Holidays

Life would feel gentler if it came with a “recalculating” feature to guide us after a meaningful loss.

When a GPS says “recalculating,” it means something changed—a missed turn or an unexpected detour. Grief mirrors that moment, redirecting life after someone we love is gone.

According to the American Psychological Association Dictionary of Psychology, grief is “the anguish experienced after significant loss, usually the death of a beloved person.” When loss occurs, many believe they must “get over it.” The truth is, the person we lost will always be missed. Grief becomes part of who we are, much like a scar that remains after a wound heals. Over time, that scar can become a quiet symbol of love and resilience.

Healing is possible, but it is not about forgetting. We move with our grief, learning to integrate it into our lives. Rediscovering purpose often marks the beginning of this new journey. For many, caregiving once filled that role—a demanding yet meaningful expression of love. Studies show that having a sense of purpose is one of the strongest factors in overall well-being.

Caring for the body strengthens the spirit. Gentle movement, nourishing food and professional support nurture both physical and emotional health. Keeping the mind active also supports healing. Exploring new interests, learning a language or reading long-awaited books can awaken curiosity and joy. Local libraries often serve as both educational and social spaces, offering opportunities for connection.

Social interaction helps ease isolation. Small gatherings, community groups or simple acts of service bring comfort and companionship. Meaningful connection—at one’s own pace—creates room for light to return to daily life.

Emotional awareness is essential. Each feeling deserves respect, and professional guidance can be valuable when grief feels too heavy. Many activities offer layered healing. A group exercise class provides both movement and social support. A grief group brings shared understanding and empathy. Creative pursuits like art, writing or knitting stimulate the mind while nurturing the heart. Teaching a skill to others can renew purpose and bring fulfillment.

The holiday season can intensify feelings of loss. Much of this stems from the expectations of how things “should” be or once were. Creating new traditions can bring peace and authenticity. Choosing how to spend the holidays—whether with close family, a few friends or in quiet reflection—helps reclaim meaning. Honoring a loved one through a favorite recipe, a written message or an act of kindness can turn sorrow into love in action. Some find healing through service, such as volunteering to help those in need. Each gesture of remembrance keeps connection alive in a new form.

Grief may remain a lifelong companion, but it can evolve. With compassion, intention and support, it becomes a gentle reminder of love that continues to guide the heart. Professional counselors, support groups and community organizations can offer help when the emotional weight feels too heavy to carry alone.

May this holiday season bring peace, comfort and moments of quiet gratitude as love and memory intertwine.

Monica Vidal is a passionate advocate for mental wellness and personal growth based in the United States. Originally from Sao Paulo, Brazil, Vidal brings a diverse cultural perspective to her work. With a background in developing and facilitating expressive group workshops, she is dedicated to promoting holistic well-being. Currently pursuing her MA in Happiness Studies, she is committed to understanding and addressing the societal pressures that shape perceptions of happiness. Through her work, Vidal aims to empower individuals to navigate their own paths to happiness and fulfillment, free from the confines of artificial standards set by the media and society. To connect with her,   email [email protected]  or visit TheHappinessHealthConnection.com.