The holiday season is often a time of joy, celebration, and
togetherness. For those who are grieving, the festivities can amplify feelings
of loss and sadness. If you're facing your first holiday season without a loved
one or continuing to navigate grief from a previous loss, know that your
feelings are valid, and at Empath Health, we believe you don't have to face
this season alone.
The Weight of the Season
The holidays bring unique challenges for those who are
grieving. Traditions that once brought comfort may now feel painful. Empty
chairs at the dinner table become more noticeable. Well-meaning questions from
friends and family about holiday plans can feel overwhelming. The pressure to
feel "merry and bright" when you're hurting can create an additional
burden during an already difficult time.
Grief doesn't follow a timeline, and it certainly doesn't
pause for the holidays. You may experience waves of sadness, anger, guilt, or
even moments of unexpected joy; all of these emotions are a normal part of the
grieving process.
Finding Your Path Through
There's no right or wrong way to grieve during the holidays.
Some people find comfort in maintaining traditions, while others need to create
new ones. You might choose to celebrate differently this year, and that's okay.
Here are some gentle reminders as you navigate this season:
Honor your feelings. Give yourself permission to feel
whatever comes up, without judgment. It's okay to excuse yourself from
gatherings if you need space, and it's equally okay to participate if that
brings you comfort.
Set boundaries. You don't have to attend every
gathering or maintain every tradition. Choose what feels manageable and
meaningful to you.
Remember in your own way. Many people find comfort in
incorporating their loved one's memory into the season, whether that's lighting
a candle, making their favorite recipe, or sharing stories about them.
Ask for support. Let trusted friends and family know
what you need. Whether that's someone to talk to, help with holiday
preparations, or simply someone who understands when you need time alone.
You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone
At Empath Health, we understand that grief needs support
year-round, especially during the holidays. That's why we're offering several
programs and events across our footprint to provide comfort, connection, and
practical tools for coping during this challenging season.
"Regardless of tradition or religion, loss can be amplified during the holiday season. Grief and sadness is love that needs to find a new outlet. Empath's talented team of grief care counselors has tailored unique events across the footprint to support you by creating a space to acknowledge your loss, share memories, and develop coping strategies."
-
Piper Stannard, Director of Adult Grief Services.
Upcoming Grief Support Events
Hospice of Marion County Serving Marion County
To reserve your spot, call 888-308-7150.
- Keeping
the Holidays Light - November 3
- Grief
Giving - November 19
Tidewell Hospice Serving Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and DeSoto Counties
To reserve your spot, call 888-308-7150.
- Ornament
Workshop - November 19
- Ornament
Workshop - November 24
- Blue
Christmas - December 20
Trustbridge Serving Palm Beach and Broward
Counties
To reserve your spot, call 888-308-7150.
- Angel
Ceremony - December 6, 2025
Suncoast Hospice Serving Pinellas County
To reserve your spot, call 888-308-7150.
Coping with the Holidays
- November
5 - St. Petersburg location, 1:30 PM
- November
13 - Pinellas Park location, 6:30 PM
- November
18 - Virtual on Teams, 5:30 PM
- December 5 - Palm Harbor location, 2:00 PM
- Specialty Bereavement 6-Week Groups are also available through Suncoast Hospice. Call 727-549-7133 to inquire about upcoming sessions.
Moving Forward with Compassion
The holidays might look and feel different this year, and
that's a reflection of your love and the importance of your loss, not a sign of
weakness or failure. By acknowledging your grief and reaching out for support
when you need it, you are taking important steps on your healing journey.
Whether you attend one of our events, reach out to our grief
counselors, or simply allow yourself to feel what you're feeling, remember that
Empath Health is here to support you. You don't have to navigate this season—or
your grief—alone.
For more information about grief support services at Empath Health, or to register for any of the events listed above, please contact the phone number for your local hospice program or explore our website.