The holidays are normally a joyous time for families to get together and celebrate, but for some people they’re a reminder of someone who’s not around anymore.

HCI Hospice Care Bereavement Counselor Denise Nahnsen says this feeling isn’t uncommon, whether the loss happened recently or long ago. “Sometimes those special days — like birthdays and wedding anniversaries, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas — they kind of intensify those feelings of grief. They magnify the absence of the person who died, and might bring back the painful emotions leaving people feeling drained.”

When it comes to handling grief during the holidays, Nahnsen emphasizes there is no one “right” way of dealing with loss. She encourages people to get together with other family members and decide how you plan to celebrate the holidays, including any changes to routines you might want to consider. Above all, Nahnsen says it’s important not to put your loved one out of your mind, as memories can be essential to the healing process.

“Sharing memories with your family and friends, this outwardly expresses how you’re feeling and it’s one of the most healing things you can do. Some people find comfort in visiting the cemetery to remember, perhaps placing flowers or a wreath on the grave. You could even buy a gift your loved one would’ve liked, and then give it to someone in need.”

To learn more about dealing with grief over the holidays, listen to Monday’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program at RaccoonValleyRadio.com. Anyone wanting help dealing with grief over the holidays can contact HCI at 515-465-4705, visit HCICareServices.org, or stop by their offices near the south entrance of Dallas County Hospital in Perry.