The holidays are often described as joyful and magical—but for many of us, this season also brings up grief, loss, stress, and emotional overwhelm. If this season feels heavier for you, you’re not alone. Many people seek grief counselling, trauma-informed therapy, or online mental health support at this time of year because the emotional load feels heavier.
Why Holidays Intensify Grief
Even if you’ve been coping well throughout the year, the holidays can make grief feel sharper. Memories, changed traditions, empty seats at the table, or pressure to be cheerful can trigger feelings of sadness, anxiety, or loneliness. These are normal human responses, especially for when we are grieving a loved one, navigating relationship changes, or experiencing burnout.
Grief Shows Up in Many Ways
In therapy, we often talk about the many forms of loss. You may be grieving:
- Divorce or separation
- Estranged or complicated family relationships
- A role or identity that has changed
- Shifts in your health or energy
- A home, routine, or life chapter you’ve left or lost
All of these experiences are valid reasons to seek mental health support or counselling during the holidays.
What Might Help This Season
- Give yourself permission to feel your emotions, without judgment or guilt
- Keep or create simple grounding rituals
- It is okay to say NO to overwhelming plans or expectations
- Connect with someone who feels safe or supportive
- Allow moments of comfort and joy without guilt
You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone
If this season is emotionally difficult, talking with someone can help. As a psychotherapist providing online counselling across Ontario, I offer compassionate support for grief, anxiety, stress, trauma, and big life transitions. You deserve a space where your experience is heard and held with care.
If you’d like help navigating grief, especially during this holiday season, I’m here.
Lisa M
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