During the holiday season grieving is even more difficult so here are a few tips to help you: • A lot of traditions are no longer possible when a loved one dies. Keep what traditions you can and be willing to start some new ones. Example – Lighting a memory candle at Christmas. • Keep the lines of communication open with all the family members. Celebrating important events is difficult, but sharing past memories will help you to heal. • Don’t get overwhelmed on the holidays. Do what you are able to do and eliminate the pressure of doing what two people used to do. • Buy a gift in memory of your loved one and give it to the charity of your choice. • Get support from others that have suffered a loss and will understand how you feel. • If you are feeling overwhelmed by a long shopping list give everyone a gift certificate. • Make a list of things to do and rely on your notes to keep you focused. • Just because everyone used to come to your house doesn’t mean that they have to this year. • If you are too tired to create your famous recipe than ask someone else to make it for you. • You don’t have to go to every party that you are invited to and you don’t need to explain yourself. • Pay attention to your own needs. Listen when your inner voice says that you’re tired. • Often there is a fear that saying the name of the deceased person will somehow cause more pain for those around you. Don’t hold back from talking about your loved one.