HOLIDAYS DURING A PANDEMIC

With the holiday season upon us, a multitude of emotions can arise.  Throw in a pandemic, and it’s bound to bring up even more. For many, holidays are a time of meaning, connection, celebration, gathering, and joy. Yet this year, grief blankets many as they mourn the loss of anticipated plans, close proximity to loved ones, traditions and rituals, and even financial spending.  

So how do we handle holidays during a pandemic? How do we get close, gather, and connect when it’s necessary to remain distant? How do we honor the needs of others while still listening to the needs of ourselves? How do we find hope and joy when loss hits hard? 

Communication and consideration. Generate conversations with loved ones about their concerns and thoughts regarding gathering. Whatever everyone decides, extend grace and empathy to opposing viewpoints as you honor your boundaries and the boundaries others have set for themselves.

Zoom. If you can’t gather in person, let technology bring you and your loved ones together. Need some guidance in the kitchen? Prop your laptop on the counter and let mom/dad watch and offer tips as you prep meals. If grandma/grandma can't join in person, set up a Zoom during dinner so they can partake in the meal from a distance. 

Practice gratitude. It’s understandable to be angry right now, and it’s okay that you are. Finding gratitude in the midst of frustration can help improve emotions and energy levels while allowing us to gain perspective and compassion. While things aren’t the way you had hoped they would be this holiday season, what are some things you are still grateful for?

Feel all the feels. Feelings are meant to be felt, so this holiday season, allow yourself to lean into the disappointment, frustration, and loss. The feelings won’t stay forever, but give yourself permission to experience them when they arise. Get the negative energy feels out: dance, sing, cry, laugh, take deep breaths. Release.

Whatever the holidays are bringing up for you, know that you are not alone in your struggles. If you’re feeling a need for extra support in navigating holidays during a pandemic, please reach out to our clinicians at Connections Counseling.