How to Handle Grief During the Holidays

Photo Credit: Pexels By Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware This article was originally published on& Word In Black. Grief is something everyone identifies with. The scientific definition might not emerge at the moment, but everyone can immediately identify with loss on some level. To have had something valuable in one moment and in the next, to have it taken away. A loved one. A relationship. A precious pet. Or maybe a job. Or a house. Some of us have even experienced the loss of youth or a dream.& No matter the loss, it’s exponentially difficult to endure during a holiday season — a time when the best of our humanity surfaces, a time when we try to ensure everyone is filled with joy — a time when we try to ensure everyone’s needs are met. Not only do we feel the loss, we feel guilty for our feelings and fear we’re diminishing others’ happiness.& Time to consult a professional. Dr. Jesaira Glover-Dulin, a licensed counselor, professional coach, and corporate trainer, said, “The grief relationship is a complicated one. While the grieving process is not a cookie cutter journey, typically the first year around the holidays tends to be extremely hard.” So,...