Whether you’re facing the first Christmas season without your loved one, or are approaching this season with many anniversaries already under your belt, grief can sometimes derail what’s supposed to be “the most wonderful time of year.” So what happens when Christmas isn’t merry?

Many people feel obligated to experience joy and excitement around the holiday season. There are strong expectations and “fear of missing out,” especially when there are traditions to enact and a social media presence to maintain. Let’s face it - our society doesn’t do a great job of supporting us when we’re mourning the loss of, well, anything. But as research shows, our ‘body keeps the score’ and whether we like it or not, sometimes our grief comes out at inopportune moments. The best gift you can give yourself, or anyone else who’s grieving, is flexibility.

Here at Tapestry Counseling, we are cognizant of the impact that COVID-19 has had on our community, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In years past, we have provided information about grief during the holidays in churches and local coffee shops in a one-hour presentation. This year, because of the nature of our collective losses, we produced a video to widen our reach to those who need it most. It is our hope that this 30 minute presentation will offer hope to those facing the next few months with uncertainty.

As always, if you are struggling with symptoms of grief and need extra support, Tapestry Counseling is available to provide individual and family counseling services. You are not alone.