For many of us, the approaching holiday season can be a time of great excitement, however, for others, this season might look different. Holidays can magnify the loss of someone special, especially someone that used to be a part of the holiday celebrations.

Having strong feelings of grief and sadness during this time is absolutely normal and valid. Sadness and loneliness can feel isolating around the holidays, and you might need extra support around this time. Here are some healthy ways to cope with grief during the holidays.

• Focus on what you can control– Think about ways you can lessen the things that bring you the most pain. Maybe it’s limiting your decorations this year or shopping online to avoid crowds of holiday shoppers.
• Find ways to honor your treasured memories– Maybe it’s making a special dish that your loved one absolutely loved or lighting a candle at the dinner table in remembrance of them.
• Create new traditions– Who said holidays have to be a specific way? Sometimes things change and traditions need to evolve. It’s okay to get creative and incorporate things that bring you joy.
• Allow yourself to feel a range of emotions—You might feel joy, guilt, and sadness all in one. Feel these without judging yourself. And remember, it is always okay to ask for help.

Often the anticipation over how hard something is going to be is worse than the actual event itself. Feel free to use these ideas to create a simple plan for your holiday season.