Coping with grief during the holiday season
ELIZABETHTOWN, KY (Dec. 3, 2025) — The holiday season is often filled with joy, celebration and togetherness. But for many individuals and families, this time of year can also heighten feelings of grief following the loss of a loved one.
Whether coping with the death of a family member, a recent divorce or another significant life change, navigating the holidays can feel overwhelming. Baptist Health is offering practical tips to help community members care for themselves and find comfort during the holiday season.
“Everyone experiences loss differently, and there is no ‘right’ way to move through the holidays after that loss,” said Imran Iqbal, MD. “What matters is having a plan, giving yourself permission to feel your emotions and leaning on healthy support systems.”
Blue Christmas prayer trees offer ways to reflect and remember
To support those who are grieving, Baptist Health Hardin invites community members to participate in its Blue Christmas Prayer Trees initiative. Christmas trees decorated in blue have been placed in each hospital chapel – one in the chapel inside the medical pavilion main entrance, and one in the chapel near the hospital cafeteria.
Visitors are encouraged to write a prayer request or the name of a loved one on a provided tag and hang it on the tree. Two additional blue trees located outdoors on campus serve to honor those throughout the community who are carrying heavy burdens this holiday season.
“For many, this season brings joy and togetherness. For others, it stirs memories of loss and longing,” said Rev. Allison Rodgers, chaplain with the hospital’s Spiritual Care Department. “Blue Christmas trees offer a way for people to pause, remember and find comfort in God’s presence and in one another. The color blue reminds us of both our grief and our hope — the promise that even in darkness, light is coming.”
The blue Christmas trees will remain on display until New Year’s.
Those needing a quiet moment are also welcome to visit the hospital’s Healing Garden, located adjacent to the cancer center.
Tips for Coping with Grief During the Holidays
Dr. Iqbal recommends the following strategies for managing grief and finding meaningful moments during the season:
- Continue traditions where possible
Maintaining certain traditions — or gathering with supportive friends and family — can offer comfort. Simplifying or modifying events can also be helpful when gatherings feel overwhelming.
- Make a plan
Thinking ahead about which traditions to continue, pause, or recreate in honor of a loved one can make the holidays feel more manageable.
- Allow all emotions to surface
Grief does not pause during the holidays. Individuals should allow themselves to feel sadness, joy and everything in between.
- Set realistic expectations
The season may feel different — and that’s normal. Managing your expectations and giving yourself grace can help reduce pressure.
- Find strength in helping others
Serving others can be healing — from inviting someone to join a holiday meal to volunteering or supporting a loved one’s favorite charity.
- Care for your health
Good nutrition, physical activity, and adequate sleep remain essential during emotionally challenging times.
- Seek additional support when needed
Family, friends, counselors, therapists and spiritual leaders can all contribute to healing. Many communities offer opportunities specifically designed for those grieving during the holidays.
Emerging Stronger
While coping with loss during the holiday season is never easy, individuals can take steps to honor their loved ones, acknowledge their grief and continue moving forward.
Dr. Iqbal also encourages people to be especially mindful of downtime when feelings of loneliness can intensify.
For more resources, including guidance on managing loneliness during the holidays, visit the Baptist Health blog at BaptistHealth.com.