Not everybody is joyful during the Christmas season. Some people find it difficult to be happy during the holidays because they are suffering from grief - whether it be because of loss, loneliness, or even both.
To help those who are feeling down this Christmas because of grief, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) is offering five tips on their website on how to get over the seemingly insurmountable emotional pain.
1. Be kind to yourself.
Billy Graham compares the death of a loved one to major surgery. But it is not just death that causes people to feel like they've been physically cut open with all their insides bared for the world to see - even the death of a relationship or a divorce can make people feel extremely vulnerable too.
"Healing from any medical operation takes time, and so does finding a new way of life after losing someone close. Leave the decorations in the attic this year if you need to," the organization suggests. "Find another family member to host Christmas dinner. Most importantly, perhaps, allow yourself to cry — or even scream — out to God as you process. Your tears aren't a sign of faithlessness. They're a natural and necessary response to your loss. Let God heal you."
2. Adjust your expectations.
Christmas will not be the same without familiar loved ones around, so it's safe to anticipate that the holidays will feel very different without them. The BGEA recommends that people be proactive about their emotional health by being honest with themselves.
"Don't live in fear of your emotions, but take stock of your heart, especially before logging onto Facebook or other social media. Feelings of loneliness have a way of intensifying when you're bombarded by social media posts of your friends apparently having a grand time. Sign off for now if you need to," they say.
3. Reach out.
When people are alone, they tend to dwell on themselves as well as their negative emotions. But if they go out and place their focus on other people's needs, they will feel happier.
"Sometimes the best way to lift your spirit is by helping someone else. Isolation turns your focus inward. Instead, volunteer with a local church, serve dinner to the homeless or walk your elderly neighbor's dog. Do something to serve," the BGEA says. "Additionally, if you're aching to have Christmas dinner with others, ask to join a family member, friend or someone in your church. Remember, it's never a bad idea to offer to bring a dish, supplies or help with cleanup."
4. Say something.
As painful as it can be to rekindle old memories, the BGEA believes that talking about it can be good to talk about it. However, if people feel it is too soon to reminisce, then it's best if they set out to create new traditions and focus forward.
5. Cling to the promises of God.
"Especially when you don't feel like it," the BGEA notes. "You might feel forgotten by people, but you aren't forgotten by our Heavenly Father. God is here. He sees you grieving. He wants to comfort you. Remind others of that truth. If you aren't familiar with His promises, start by finding peace with God."
