Coping with the Holidays During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The holidays can be a challenging and confusing time for people who are grieving. This year’s social distancing, safety guidelines, travel restrictions, and more may present further limitations and unique considerations that are far from normal. The holidays will be different this year. It will be that much more crucial and important for you to consider and honor your needs, feelings and capacity.

It is also OK not to know how you feel about the holiday time. Upholding traditions may feel challenging or nearly impossible. Thinking ahead may bring creative ideas and help you reduce stress and navigate through this difficult time.

Here are some activities to consider:

Giving

• Send holiday cards
• Make gifts (is there something that would honor or be a special reminder of your loved one?)
• Give/send baked goods

Environment

• Decorate
• Have a special decoration for your loved one
• Music (Music can be emotional. Do you prefer your traditional music or want to try something different?)

Social Interaction

• If you’re a member of a religious or spiritual community, are they gathering – either online or distanced?
• Connect with family and friends (call, online, email) if you are facing loneliness or feel isolated
• Hold a virtual get-together to share stories or pictures of your loved one

Self-Care

• Take warming baths
• Relax/Meditate
• Ask for help
• Eat nourishing foods
• Take walks / get fresh air
• Exercise (light, moderate or heavy)
• Write in a journal
• Think about what you want to do and don’t want to do, and communicate that to others

Here are some other ways to help cope with loss during the holidays:

LISTEN to a podcast about coping with the holidays.

WATCH a special episode of our Timing is Everything cable television show for tips on dealing with grief at the holidays.

ATTEND a virtual grief support workshop. See listings on our Calendar. For more information or to register, email [email protected].