Bereavement Support in the New Year | Helpful Tips & Advice from East of England Co-op Funeral Services
Bereavement Support: Coping with Grief in the New Year
The New Year is often seen as a time of fresh beginnings. But for those coping with grief, this time of year can feel particularly daunting – and far removed from the ‘happy’ salutation that will be exchanged for a number of weeks.
As the year transitions from old to new, it may magnify absence and prompt intense feelings of sadness, longing and uncertainty.
At East of England Co-op Funeral Services, we have been supporting families across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex for over 100 years and know that dealing with loss is never easy. There will be times that feel particularly challenging, but you’re not alone.
Why the New Year Can Feel Hard After Losing a Loved One
Grief doesn’t take a break for holidays or annual celebrations like New Year’s Eve. For those contemplating life after loss, leaving the past year behind can bring conflicting emotions and create pressure to participate in traditions that may no longer feel appropriate.
Bereavement is a deeply personal experience; it’s often unpredictable and there’s no wrong or right way to feel. As a new year begins, feeling apprehensive and heartbroken that your loved one is no longer around to share the moments that lie ahead is entirely natural.
It’s important to take each day as it comes. There’s no set path or timeline for healing after a loss – everyone’s grief journey is unique. Be gentle with yourself, and allow the process to unfold at its own pace. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting; it means finding a way to move forward while honouring what you’ve lost.
Finding comfort in the New Year after loss
Click below to find our helpful guide on how you can find comfort in the New Year after loss.
Taking a Step Back from New Year Traditions
Before the champagne corks start popping, it’s natural to feel the urge to withdraw. Grieving at the start of a new year – surrounded by large gatherings and noisy celebrations – can be especially overwhelming.
However, it’s worth noting that New Year’s Eve is just one night of the year. Don’t put pressure on yourself to conform or do anything just to please others. Social pressure to appear cheerful can sometimes worsen feelings of loneliness or sadness, so ensuring that you set boundaries and take good care of your own needs, first and foremost, is essential.
Family and friends can support you best by respecting your need for space – if that’s what you want – and understanding that you may want to take a step back from (or at least keep a low profile) at any gathering.
There’s no need for grand New Year’s resolutions – simply committing to care for yourself and take things one step at a time is more than enough.
Practical Ways to Cope with Grief Day to Day
Looking too far ahead or focusing on milestones that you can no longer share with a loved one can feel unbearable. Instead, try to live in the moment and engage in activities that bring you some comfort.
Take some time out just for you – whether that’s pouring a cuppa, going for a gentle walk, or simply stepping outside to breathe in some fresh air. These small pauses can create much-needed space to acknowledge your feelings and process your grief at your own pace.
You could write a journal about how you feel, create a grief calendar with days marked for small acts of remembrance or self-care, join a meditation or mindfulness class, start a hobby or do some volunteering... whatever feels right and helps you cope with how you’re feeling.
Where to Find Bereavement Support and Guidance
Spending time with loved ones can be a comforting part of the healing process after a loss. Small gatherings, one-on-one conversations, or virtual check-ins can provide reassurance and companionship.
Trained professionals and charities like AtaLoss can provide bereavement guidance and help you cope with difficult moments without judgment. At the same time, support groups create a haven where you can share your feelings, bond with others who are experiencing grief, and feel a sense of togetherness on your journey.
The New Year can feel overwhelming when you’re grieving, but by taking small steps, reaching out for support, and making space for how you feel, you can gradually look forward and embrace life, one day at a time.
Click here for our downloadable guide to help you find comfort in the New Year after loss.
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