12 easy ways to help a grieving friend this holiday season

The holidays are upon us and it seems that many people have decided to simplify their Christmas traditions this year. Instead of spending hours shopping and getting frustrated at the mall, they have decided to spend quality time with friends and family.

In a spirit of simplicity and kindness, we’ve compiled a list of 12 simple and memorable ways to support a grieving loved one this holiday season. This list comes from suggestions submitted by our online community. So take a minute to review your vacation. To do list and make sure you’ve added your grieving loved ones to the list.

1. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge the loss.. One of the most important things you can do for a friend who is grieving is to understand that special occasions and holidays can be filled with sadness and joy. A message as simple as “I know that the holidays can be difficult for you. I want you to know that I am thinking of you.” It will let them know that you care.

two. Listen and let the tears flow. Give your friend a chance to feel all the feelings he is experiencing at this time of year.

3. Let the person set the pace. The duel is a bit like a roller coaster with many ups and downs. Your friend may want to cry one minute, talk about funny memories the next, and then the next, they may want to spend some time alone. Respect her needs and understand that her mood swing is not about you.

Four. Encourage your friend to talk about the person who passed away. If you knew the person, share your good memories as well.

5. Invite your friend to join your Christmas gathering. As family members pass away, traditions change and a loved one may not be able to spend the holidays with their family. Including them in family holidays will help ease the loneliness they may be feeling at this time of year.

6. Send a card and be sure to acknowledge the loss. Don’t be afraid to mention the person’s name or include your own personal memories of the person who passed away.

7. Visit the cemetery with your friend or leave flowers with a note for the family at the grave.

8. Make your friend’s favorite Christmas treat or the deceased person’s favorite food. Every year I make my mother’s Christmas cookies to remember her love of the holidays.

9. Create a scrapbook of memories. Ask your friends and family to write down their memories of the loved one who passed away and to put together a scrapbook of photos and stories to give to your bereaved friend.

10. Make a donation to your favorite charity in memory of the deceased person.

eleven. Encourage them to take care of themselves. Self-care is very important to the healing process. Treat yourself to a spa pampering or prepare a care package that includes a relaxation CD, bath salts and an aromatherapy candle. If going to a spa is not your way to relax, find an activity that brings you joy and relaxation.

12. Don’t run for the hills. Many people are afraid of being around a grieving person. They often treat the grieving person as if they have a contagious disease. A true friend is one who supports his friend and allows him the space to feel all the feelings that he is going through … the good and the bad.

Offering your support, understanding, and companionship over the holidays will be a precious gift. Make sure you listen to your friend’s wishes and don’t force him to participate in activities that may be overwhelming. Be sure to offer your support only if you know you can really move on. And remember, it is the simple acts of kindness that are done with an open heart that are remembered year after year.