Dealing With Grief at Christmas
Dealing With Grief at Christmas
Compassionate advice from Mears Family Funerals
December 2025
The Christmas period is widely seen as a time of celebration, family gatherings, and joyful traditions. But for anyone experiencing grief at Christmas, the festive season can feel incredibly difficult. At Mears Family Funerals, we know that bereavement can intensify during the holidays, making everyday moments feel heavier and memories more painful.
Whether this is your first Christmas without a loved one or you have been grieving for some time, here are supportive and practical ways to cope during the festive period.
Acknowledge Your Feelings During Christmas Grief
One of the most important steps in coping with bereavement at Christmas is allowing yourself to experience your emotions. You may feel sadness, anger, numbness, guilt, or moments of peace - sometimes all within the same day. These feelings are natural, and it’s helpful to recognise that:
- There is no “correct” way to grieve.
- You do not need to force yourself to be festive.
- Emotional ups and downs are part of the grieving process.
Acknowledging your feelings is often the first step towards navigating this season with compassion for yourself.
Adjust Expectations to Reduce Stress
Many people experiencing grief feel pressure to uphold Christmas traditions, host gatherings, or attend social events. But it’s perfectly acceptable to set boundaries and do only what feels manageable.
You may choose to:
- decline invitations
- reduce the scale of celebrations
- spend time quietly instead of attending events
- change or simplify traditions
Let loved ones know what you need. Most will appreciate your honesty and want to support you.
Honour and Remember Your Loved One at Christmas
Creating moments of remembrance can provide comfort and connection during the festive season. Consider incorporating small memorial rituals, such as:
- lighting a candle in their memory
- hanging a personalised memorial ornament
- playing a favourite song or preparing a favourite dish
- looking through photographs or sharing stories
- visiting a meaningful place
These traditions can help keep your loved one present in a gentle, meaningful way
Seek Support From People Who Understand Grief
Grief can feel isolating, especially during a season focused on togetherness. Reaching out to others who understand your situation—whether family, friends, support groups, or a professional counsellor - can provide emotional relief.
At Mears Family Funerals, we are always available to offer guidance and bereavement support. You are welcome to contact us if you’re struggling with grief or need someone to talk to.
Practice Self-Care to Manage Grief During the Festive Season
Christmas can be physically and emotionally draining when you’re grieving. Prioritising self-care can help you manage stress and protect your wellbeing.
Some helpful strategies include:
- getting adequate rest
- spending time outdoors
- limiting alcohol and sugar, which can impact mood
- maintaining simple daily routines
- engaging in gentle activities that bring comfort
Remember, it’s okay to slow down.
Create New Christmas Traditions When You’re Ready
Over time, you may find that certain Christmas traditions need to change. This doesn’t mean forgetting your loved one - rather, it’s a way to adapt and honour your life as it is now.
New traditions may include:
- planning a peaceful day instead of a busy one
- donating to charity in your loved one’s memory
- having a quiet dinner rather than a large gathering
- writing a Christmas letter to the person you’re missing
Do what feels right for you, at your own pace.
You Are Not Alone This Christmas
If you’re experiencing bereavement at Christmas, please know you’re not alone. Grief is deeply personal, and there is no expectation to act happy or festive when you’re hurting. At Mears Family Funerals, we are here to support you - not just during the funeral arrangements, but throughout your journey with grief.
If you need guidance, emotional support, or simply someone to listen, we are here for you this Christmas and beyond.