The holidays are often painted as a time of joy, togetherness and celebration, but for many, this season can magnify emotional pain. When you have experienced the loss of a loved one, the festive lights and gatherings can feel like painful reminders of what is missing. Navigating grief and depression during this time is not easy, but you are not alone and support is available.
Why the Holidays Can Trigger Grief
Grief can linger for years after a loss, and certain dates, traditions and memories can bring emotions rushing to the surface. This is especially common during the holidays, when family time or familiar songs can trigger deep feelings. These emotional waves are a normal part of coping after a loss, but they can also intensify existing mental health struggles, including depression and anxiety. For some, these feelings may appear as:
- A lack of motivation to engage in holiday activities
- Heightened sadness, loneliness, or emotional numbness
- Disrupted sleep
- A change in appetite
- Withdrawal from social connections
Recognizing these signs is an important first step in supporting your mental health after a loss.
Giving Yourself Permission to Feel
Many people feel pressure to “feel strong” or “be happy around others” during the holidays. But suppressing grief only makes it harder to heal. It is okay to cry, to skip certain traditions, or to create new ones that feel right for where you are emotionally. Grief is personal, and there is no timeline for healing. Give yourself permission to honor your loved one in ways that bring comfort, whether that is lighting a candle, sharing stories, or taking quiet time for yourself.
When Grief and Depression Overlap
For some, the pain of loss can evolve into grief and depression that prevents them from living their life. Persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, feelings of hopelessness, or physical symptoms such as fatigue can signal that it is time to seek help. This is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign that you need support.
How TMS May Help Support Healing
One treatment option that has shown promise for people struggling with depression after a loss is TMS therapy. TMS is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain that are involved with mood regulation. For individuals who have not found relief through traditional methods alone, TMS can be a supportive tool in managing depression and improving overall mental health after a loss. It is not about “fixing” grief but helping you regain the emotional strength to navigate it.
If this upcoming holiday season is starting to feel heavy, remember that grief does not define your future. With compassion, support, and the right tools, healing is possible. If you are struggling with grief and depression, our team at TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley is here to help. We offer compassionate care to support your emotional well-being and help you find some relief during difficult times. Contact us today to learn more about your options for healing and support.