Is There More Grief During the Holidays?

Do you feel sad around the holidays? A lot of people do. The holidays are supposed to be about family, giving, and tradition. So why do many people have a hard time? Are there more deaths, break-ups and other losses during the holiday season? The answer is no. There are no more losses in December than during other times of the year. There are, however, more stimuli that could remind you of past losses.

What is stimulus and how does it relate to grief?

Stimulus is the sights, smells, sounds, and tastes that trigger memories. It causes your brain to recall events or feelings associated with the stimulus. Because so many events happen during the holidays, there is more stimulus than during the rest of the year that could remind you of past losses. Stimulus such as holiday lights, decorations, and music can cause you to remember a family member who died, a break-up, or childhood experiences. Fond memories are normal and healthy. Unresolved grief is when fond memories turn painful.

Read Full Article Here