You are not alone

This week, my blog is a little different. I am both a funeral celebrant and a wedding celebrant; I love both roles equally. They are different, but both rewarding in their own ways. At Christmas, being a funeral celebrant can be challenging—feeling festive and entering the Christmas spirit is difficult when I know what my families are going through. So, this week, I thought I would reach out to my grieving families.

On my social media, I will be posting links to groups and organisations you can contact. You are not alone. Everyone's grief is different; yours is unique. But if you need help, then reach out.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Christmas is often depicted as a season of joy, togetherness, and celebration. Everywhere we look, there are images of happy families, full tables, and shared laughter. But for many people, Christmas can be one of the most difficult times of the year—especially if you’re feeling lonely or mourning the loss of someone you love.

If this season feels overwhelming for you, please remember this: your feelings are valid, and help is available.

When you’re lonely or grieving, Christmas can heighten emotions. Traditions might remind you of who is missing. Quiet moments can seem louder. Social expectations can give the impression that everyone else is coping better than you are.

Grief doesn’t follow a timetable, and loneliness isn’t a personal failure. Both are human responses to loss and change.

One of the most difficult steps can be simply telling someone how you’re feeling. But reaching out can make a real difference.

Speak to someone you trust — a friend, family member, neighbour, or colleague. You don’t need the perfect words; simply saying “I’m finding Christmas hard” is enough.

Accept offers of help — if someone invites you for a walk, a meal, or a chat, saying yes can help reduce feelings of isolation, even if it feels tough at first.

Use helplines and listening services — many organisations offer phone calls, online chats, or text services, especially during the holidays, so you can talk to someone anonymously and without pressure.

You’re not the only one feeling this way, even if it seems like it.

Local community centres, faith groups, and charities frequently organise Christmas lunches, coffee mornings, or support groups for those who are alone.

Bereavement support groups can be especially comforting, providing understanding from people who truly “get it.”

Online communities can also provide a connection if leaving home feels overwhelming.

There’s no “right” way to celebrate Christmas.

Give yourself permission to alter traditions or skip them altogether.

It’s okay to decline invitations to events that feel overwhelming.

Create small, comforting rituals just for yourself — lighting a candle, watching a favourite film, taking a quiet walk, or writing a letter to the person you’ve lost.

Grief and loneliness can impact your mental health, especially during the festive season.

Try to keep simple routines, like eating regular meals and maintaining sleep patterns.

Limit alcohol if you can, as it can heighten low moods.

If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness become overwhelming, consider talking to a GP.