Coping with grief during the holidays

Desmond Devnich — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 23:38:41 +0000

The holiday season can bring up complex emotions for anyone grieving the death of someone important. While others may be celebrating, many people are navigating memories, changes in routine, and the absence of someone they deeply miss. Grief doesn’t follow a calendar and it doesn’t pause simply because it is December. If this season feels overwhelming, complicated, or different than it used to, you are not alone. Grief is a natural response to love and loss and it deserves space, compassion, and support.

The holidays don’t have to be perfect

We can feel pressure to create meaningful, joyful celebrations. Yet even when everything appears perfect on the outside, grief may still show up. Allow yourself to be present as you are, without expectations or self-judgment. Some days will feel heavier than others — that’s normal.

Be intentional and open to change

Traditions can bring comfort, but they can also feel painful when someone is missing. Ask yourself: What is the heart of this tradition? Connection? Faith? Memory? Generosity? Consider adapting old routines or creating new ones that reflect where you are now. Meaning can evolve over time.

Practice saying no

Grieving takes emotional, physical, and mental energy. If your schedule feels overwhelming, give yourself permission to decline invitations or step away from activities that feel too demanding this year. Prioritizing what matters most protects your energy and well-being.

Plan time for yourself

Quiet time, rest, reflection, or simply stepping away from a gathering can make a big difference. Scheduling breaks or building in slower days may help you cope when the season feels busy or emotionally charged.

Reach out for support

Grief can feel isolating, even when surrounded by others. While family and friends may be supportive, you may also benefit from connecting with trained grief support volunteers or professionals. Chilliwack Hospice Society offers free, one-to-one grief support as well as group programs. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

Make room for both grief and joy

It is common to feel complex emotions: sadness, gratitude, longing, laughter, love. Some people worry that enjoying the holidays means they are “moving on” or forgetting their loved one. Joy does not erase grief. Both feelings can co-exist, and both are valid.

Honour your loved one in meaningful ways

Finding gentle ways to remember your loved one can offer comfort. You might:

Cook a favourite recipe
Display a special ornament or keepsake
Light a candle
Share stories with people who are comfortable listening
Create a private ritual just for you

There is no right or wrong way to grieve someone you miss.

You are not alone

The holidays can be tender, painful, meaningful, or bittersweet, sometimes all at once. Be gentle with yourself as you move through the season. Consider visiting us for Celebrate A Life at Minter Country Garden or Thrifty Boutique, attend our Holiday Movie Matinee on December 12, or participating in our Coffee & Compassion Drop-In Grief Support Circle, December 15. You’ll be in good company.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

How to Support Someone Who is Grieving this Easter

Chilliwack Hospice Society — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 12:54:09 +0000

For many who celebrate, the Easter season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and renewal. However, holiday weekends can be especially difficult for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. If you have a friend or family member who is experiencing grief this Easter, there are several things you can do to offer support.

Firstly, let them know that you are there for them and that you are willing to listen. Sometimes just having someone to talk to can make a big difference.

Secondly, consider offering to help with practical tasks like grocery shopping, cooking, or cleaning. Grieving individuals may feel overwhelmed and appreciate the extra help.

Thirdly, acknowledge the loss and the person’s feelings. Rather than trying to cheer them up or distract them from their grief, it can be helpful to simply acknowledge that the holidays may be tough and validate their feelings.

Lastly, consider offering a small token of remembrance, like a framed photo or a favourite Easter treat that the person shared with their loved one. This can show that you care and that their loved one is not forgotten.

Remember, everyone grieves differently and there is no one “right” way to support someone who is grieving. Simply being there and offering your support can make a big difference during the holiday season.

Chilliwack Hospice Society provides compassionate support to grieving individuals and families through free one-to-one sessions and many group programs. If you or someone you know is grieving the death of a loved one, contact us at (604) 795-4660 or email info@chilliwackhospice.org for more information.

Chilliwack Hospice Society will be closed April 7–10 in observance of Good Friday and Easter Monday. If you are experiencing a difficult time coping with grief and loss over the holidays, please reach out to one of the following resources for support:

24/7 Fraser Health Crisis Line (1-877-820-7444)
Seniors’ Distress Line (604-872-1234)
Mental Health Support (310-7689) *no area code needed

holiday grief – Chilliwack Hospice Society