The festive season is an extremely emotive time for many. It is particularly hard to navigate if you are grieving. While lots of people are wishing each other well in the holiday period, there are also those who are struggling to cope with the thought of this time of year without loved ones. 

There are lots of ways to cope with this challenging time and talking with your family about how you feel is a basic but great way to begin.

Being sensitive of how others are dealing with the loss is considerate as everyone grieves differently.

Making room to acknowledge your feelings is necessary as it is perfectly natural to miss that person. 

Writing a journal or scrapbooking can be a way of practicing mindfulness and allow you to reflect on your well being.

Traditions are a tricky one as they often remind you of the 'person sized hole' that has been left. This can also be a  great way of honouring them and reflecting hope . You could create new traditions in remembrance:

• prepare their favourite dish or set a place at the dinner table for them
• donate in their name or give a gift in memory of them
• write a tribute letter or host a gathering in remembrance
• create a memory book, ornament or bauble
• light a candle by their photo or graveside
• plant a memorial tree or remembrance garden

My personal favourite is to buy something they would have loved and give it to someone who really is in need of it. Random acts of kindness are a great way of celebrating them, you and the person you have gifted. 

Be kind to yourself. Try to maintain a regular sleeping and eating pattern. Volunteer for a day or see friends and family members. Take time out if things are getting too much for you and grant yourself permission to not be okay. 

If you are struggling you can call Cruse Bereavement Helpline on 0808 808 1677 or 

The Samaritans 24/7 confidential Helpline on 116 123 or

Shout 24/7 crisis text service - text SHOUT to 85258 or

Papyrus specialist support option for those having suicidal thoughts on 0800 068 4141 or text 88247 or

Silence of Suicide specialist support option for those having suicidal thoughts on 0808 115 1505.

You are not alone - please just pick up the phone - there is always someone to listen. Take care this Christmas.