Coping with the loss of a loved one at any time of the year is painful, but dealing with your grief at the beginning of a new year can be particularly difficult. The notion of starting afresh and making new goals seems difficult to imagine when you’re missing someone that you love. These emotions are normal—and it’s important to understand that there are resources and support available through family, friends, and even funeral homes. Here’s what you should know.

How to Cope With Grief in the New Year

Why Is Facing a New Year Difficult?

Whether you made some plans with your loved one for the new year or you have fond memories of ringing in a previous year with them, it is challenging to accept that it will be different this January. At the same time, you might be tasked with unexpected responsibilities relating to your loss. Perhaps you need to contact a funeral home to make arrangements for a burial service or cremation. When coupled with your grief, it can be enormously difficult to complete such duties without feeling overwhelmed.

What Is the Best Way to Cope?

Remember that grief is different for everyone. You might be okay one moment and overcome by sorrow the next. In these moments, lean on those who are there for you. Turn to the friends and family who were at the funeral, for example, and never feel that you can’t take someone up on a kind offer—people care, and they want to support you. Think, too, about the impact your loved one had on your life, and what you learned from them during your time together. Did they have a great sense of humor or a particularly giving spirit? You can channel those positive traits and remember the person with a smile.

How Can You Handle Challenging Moments?

Don’t feel guilty when someone wishes you a “happy new year” and you can’t muster much enthusiasm. You cannot pour from an empty cup, which means you can’t give much of yourself when you need to restore your spirit and honor your loved one. Give yourself all the time you need to heal, both mentally and physically—it can be taxing on the body to experience grief. Rest when you are tired, and call on friends when you need a shoulder. Contact a funeral home if you’re interested in learning more about grief support services. Finally, never miss a moment to remember those special moments with your loved one. They will carry you through the new year and into the future.

The compassionate staff at Morris Funeral Home takes pride in helping you handle the complex funeral planning process. Based in Wayne, WV, they’ve served the community since 1932. In addition to funeral services, they can also assist in planning a burial or cremation, and they will answer any questions you have about pre-planning funerals. If you are having a difficult time coping with your loss, you can also turn to the funeral home for grief support options. Visit their website to learn more, or call (304) 272-5171.