If you’re suffering from grief this Christmas, even the smallest decisions can feel overwhelming. Friends and family may want you to attend parties and gatherings, hoping to cheer you up.
While it may help to connect with others, it is also understandable that you may not be feeling the holiday spirit.
Where this is the case, you also have to consider the impact of nonparticipation on others you care about.
Express Gratitude
Whether you end up accepting or rejecting the invitation, start by thanking the host for their thoughtfulness. They will be grateful for your appreciation of their efforts. This helps to keep the relationship strong.
Recognize and Manage Your Feelings
It’s essential to recognize your limits during emotionally charged occasions like the Christmas season. Allow yourself to feel whatever comes up without judgment. If attending certain gatherings or events feels overwhelming, it’s okay to decline or leave early. Explain that your choice doesn’t mean you’ll always decline.
Decide Ahead of Time
You may find it useful to plan ahead of time the people you want to spend time with. Choose which events you want to attend and only do what you feel comfortable with. Try to keep things simple and not pressure yourself into making plans if you’d rather be alone.
Be Flexible
Weigh the event’s significance. If it also involves a once in a lifetime activity for a loved one, you may want to go. However, since some days may feel heavier than others, it’s okay to attend for a brief period.
Respond to Genuine Invitations
If you want to be in the company of others this season, surround yourself with genuinely caring friends and relatives who understand your feelings and are willing to listen. Also consider whether you will be able to engage with them authentically before going.
