The death of a loved one is certainly an unfortunately experience. While, in some cases, time prepares those who will be left behind for the profound sorrow, to some, it comes when it is least expected, even in times when you’re supposed to be happy. When it comes to grieving over the holidays, here are some things that we should keep in mind: Share the experience with loved ones. Be mentally prepared for any awkward or uncomfortable situations and questions that you my encounter during holiday gatherings. Look at traditions as a way to remember and celebrate a departed loved one. Don’t neglect your personal needs. Click here to learn more.

Grief is a complex subject. However, in order to get through it with as little damage as possible, one has to learn as much as he can about this process. Here are some facts about grief: Grief is a common reaction to loss. Other than the death of a loved one, it can also stem from a break-up, job loss and others. Prolonged grief lasts more than one year and can affect the griever’s relationship with others. Click here to learn more about grief.

There’s no describing the emotional state of a parent who has recently lost a beloved child. However, while it may be highly improbable for one person to understand, and much less to empathize, with the feelings that he or she is going through, it is important to tread lightly and be the most sensitive and cautious as one can be when approaching the tender topic of loss: Be sincere and speak from the depths of your heart. Note that certain quotes and Bible verses may be misinterpreted into something negative. Avoid dropping comments that may suggest that the parent should “get over” and “move on” from what has happened. Click here to learn more.

Some may find that engaging in mind-body practices, such as yoga, is an excellent way of coping with grief and other emotional conditions. Antonio Sausys, whose  mother died from a stroke when he was twenty years old, stated that “if the body is left out [of grief treatment], it becomes a very important source of expression of the pain, and it easily falls in deep dysfunction.” In addition, other than yoga, a recent study found that a type of intervention called “self-narrative” can also help improve an individual’s emotional state. Click here to learn more.  

Some may wonder about the differences between grief and depression. PsychCentral contributor Christine Stapleton, who has gone through both conditions herself, admit that even she does not completely understand how the two are related and/or different from one another. Fortunately, she has dug up a study published in JAMA Psychiatry about the subject, and she learned that the two differ in terms of temporal aspects and in intensity. To learn more about how doctors distinguish grief from depression, click here.