Grief and Loss Counseling with a Los Angeles Psychologist During The Holidays

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During this time of year, it’s not unusual to think of loved ones you’ve lost more often. The holidays tend to remind us of those we miss who have passed, and after a year like 2020, you may be experiencing more grief than ever. If you’re having a hard time getting through your day-to-day responsibilities due to the loss of someone close to you, you shouldn’t suffer alone. Learn how to cope and ultimately thrive again with the help of grief and loss counseling with Los Angeles psychologist Yvonne Thomas, Ph.D.

Celebrate The Lives of Those You’ve Lost

Rather than bottling up those feelings of grief and longing for those no longer with you, embrace their memory and make them part of your holiday. Find ways to incorporate their favorite traditions, whether that be decorating, cooking, or any holiday activities that remind you of them. Spend time sharing stories with other loved ones who miss them as well. You’ll start to notice the weight of missing them feels a little lighter when you reflect on the wonderful times you had with that person. Even when they’re gone, you can carry on memories and traditions they loved to help you cope with your grief. 

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Sometimes the loss of someone feels too new and talking about that person or celebrating his or her memory can feel like a fresh wound that hasn’t healed yet. When you aren’t sure how to deal with your feelings during this time of year due to a loss, Los Angeles Psychologist Dr. Yvonne Thomas will help you learn new skills to manage your pain as you go through the phases of grieving. The grieving process is unavoidable after losing someone close to you, and even during the holidays, it’s important to prioritize learning healthy ways to cope and effectively mourn your loss of a loved one. 

Prioritizing Your Mental Well-Being After An Unprecedented Year

With the holiday season here, it may feel hard to get in a festive mood this year due to the pandemic and your loss. If your holiday plans are being canceled due to COVID-19, it can be difficult to feel the joy and magic of Christmas, Hanukkah, or any of the holidays you celebrate. 

One of the best ways to lift your spirits is establishing new traditions that bring you and your loved ones happiness. Whether it be having holidays “together” via Zoom, driving around and looking at decorations in your neighborhood, or cooking new holiday meals with those you live with, you still can have a positive experience celebrating the holidays. 

Even the strongest of people need someone to talk to after a year like 2020. Most people have never experienced a pandemic in their lifetimes and navigating through this unprecedented time has been extremely challenging. Many of you have lost friends or family due to the coronavirus or other causes, and because of the added difficulty of having to mourn your loss in the middle of a pandemic, it may be very beneficial to work with a psychologist who specializes in grief and loss counseling. Set up an appointment with Los Angeles Psychologist Dr. Yvonne Thomas today by calling (310) 359-9450 or you can e-mail her through the Request An Appointment portal on her website: https://www.yvonnethomasphd.com/contact/