11/28/2025
Loss and Sorrow during the Holiday Season
Written by Ramie Uren, LIMHP, LPC
The loss of a loved one may feel amplified during the holidays. During a season of joy and happiness, one may feel isolated as they try to navigate the festivities while masking their sorrow around others.
While grief is one of the most universal human experiences, each person processes it very differently. I want to assure you that there isn’t a right or wrong way to grieve.
You may be someone who decides to avoid holiday traditions and decline invitations this year. If this is what you need to do to take care of yourself, I encourage you to do just that. Prioritize your self-care and know that you can do so without guilt.
If you are experiencing grief, you may feel amazed that the sun continues to rise every day without your loved one. You may wonder how everyone else can celebrate in the absence of such an important person. Silently, you may question whether anyone else notices the empty chair, that Grandma’s homemade bread is missing from the table, or the absence of that trademark laugh.
Then it happens—someone begins to reminisce about past holidays and memories. You find yourself feeling a mix of comfort and heartbreak. Grief, the journey of healing, unfolds in both the tears that are shed and the laughter that is shared.
As you navigate this holiday season and try to understand what your new “normal” will look like, be patient with yourself and your loved ones. Remember that everyone’s journey is different, and that the biggest smile may be hiding a shattered heart. I encourage you to say their name, take time to honor your loved one, and share the memories.
If you are a friend or family member wanting to offer support, don’t worry about saying the “right” thing—it simply doesn’t exist. Letting someone know that you see them and recognize their loss can be unspoken. Your presence, a hug that lasts until they pull away, or a gentle squeeze of the hand can speak louder than words.
If you feel compelled to do so, please share the name(s) and any information you are comfortable sharing about your loved one in the comments. As a community, we are here to support and uplift one another not only in this holiday season, but in the season of grief.