When Choosing cremation, many families decide to hold off on any traditional grieving ceremonies until after the holidays. Here are some tips for navigating the holidays after a loved one has been cremated.

It seems as if the holidays are always either upon us, or just behind us. There’s no good time for a loved one to pass away, but it can happen during the holiday season and that seems to make things even harder. Even if your loved one passed away over the summer, the holidays can hit you hard. Once Evanston, IL cremation and any services you have are behind you, you still have to deal with the holidays and this huge change in your life. Here are a few tips to get you started on getting through the process.

Tip 1: Avoid Isolation

There may be times when you just feel like being alone and there’s nothing wrong with that. Perhaps you won’t want to attend all of the same parties you have in the past or maybe you won’t want to organize your own events to host, but that doesn’t mean you should shut everyone out during this difficult time. Keep in touch with your family members and have gatherings so you can grieve together. You might not feel as festive but being around others will help you get through the hard times.

Tip 2: Create A New Normal

Nothing will feel the same without that special family member, but this is your opportunity to create a new normal. Perhaps the person you lost was the one who always did all of the cooking. Instead of scrambling for a meal or placing it on someone else to take care of, consider a potluck. Don’t let old traditions fall, but instead create something new that will become the norm. Nothing is the same any longer but creating something new that honors your loved one will help you move on.

Tip 3: Help Others

You aren’t the only one going through a hard time during the holidays. Instead of suffocating in your grief, do what you can to help others. It’ll make you feel good and help you remember your blessings. Volunteer at a soup kitchen or buy gifts for a family in need. There are more opportunities out there during the holidays than any other time of the year. Lending a helping hand can help you get through the time as well.

Tip 4: Remember Them

You’ll think of your loved ones daily, but you may want to do something special to remember them during the holidays. Hang a stocking in their honor or leave an empty place at the table. Hold a gathering with family where you share memories. Whatever you can do to include them in this time of year, you should do to aid you and your struggling family members.

When you need Evanston, IL cremation services, contact Chicagoland Cremation Options at (773) 631-0018 for help. We’re here for you in the difficult times and we will give you peace of mind that your loved one will be in good hands throughout the process. You can visit our crematory at 9329 Byron St. Schiller Park, IL 60176.