Practical Tips to Navigate the Holidays While Honoring Loved Ones and Building Connection
Palm Beach County & Broward County (December 12, 2024): – For many, the holiday season is a bittersweet time, filled with cherished memories of loved ones who are no longer here or feelings of isolation in the midst of celebrations. Coping with grief or combating loneliness during the holidays can feel overwhelming, but Boys Town experts want individuals and families to know they are not alone—and there are ways to find comfort and meaning during this time.
“The holiday season contains many messages about how things should be in order to create the most wonderful time of the year,” said Diane Andreou, PhD, Director and licensed Psychologist of Boys Town Behavioral Health Clinic. “It’s ok to recognize that some of these messages are not practical or realistic.”
Tips for Coping with Grief During the Holidays
- Navigate Traditions with Care
- Consider which traditions bring joy and which may feel too painful this year. It’s okay to modify or skip certain activities.
- Engage in traditions that connect you to your loved one’s memory, like making their favorite recipe or lighting a candle in their honor.
- Create New Traditions
- Starting something new, like volunteering or creating a memory box, can help you honor the past while finding a positive way to move forward.
- Invite family and friends to share memories or stories of your loved one to keep their spirit alive.
- Embrace the Full Range of Emotions
- Allow yourself to grieve and feel joy without guilt. It’s okay to laugh, cry, or experience both emotions at once.
- Reach Out for Support
- Talk with trusted family or friends about your feelings. Sometimes, simply sharing can lift some of the emotional weight.
- Boys Town’s National Hotline (1-800-448-3000) is available 24/7 to provide support, whether you’re feeling isolated or overwhelmed.
Tips for Combating Loneliness During the Holidays
- Connect with Community
- Seek out local events or volunteer opportunities. Helping others can create a sense of belonging and purpose.
- Invite friends or neighbors to join you for a simple meal or activity.
- Practice Self-Care
- Schedule activities that bring you peace, whether it’s journaling, walking, or engaging in a hobby you love.
- Remember, small moments of joy can add up to a more fulfilling holiday season.
- Leverage Technology
- Reach out to loved ones virtually if distance prevents in-person connections. A video call can provide comfort and closeness.
- Plan Ahead for Difficult Moments
- Identify the times you may feel most lonely, such as holiday mornings or evenings, and plan activities or phone calls to fill those gaps.
“Remember to pay attention to how you and those around you deal with stress,” Dr. Andreou. “You can take steps to care for yourself and your relationships while enjoying the holiday season.”
About Boys Town South Florida:
For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America’s children and families through innovative youth, research, and healthcare programs. Boys Town South Florida has been providing life-changing care to area children and families since 1991. Our programs and services are part of the Boys Town national network and include the organization’s research-proven methods, which ensure that troubled children and families across the country receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way. You can find more information about Boys Town online at www.boystown.org.
Note:
Boys Town behavioral health experts are available for interviews to discuss coping with grief, share mental health strategies, and provide additional insights for families navigating loss and loneliness during the holiday season. For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Cara MacVane at 561.685.2342 or CKMacVane@gmail.com.
