White banner with a pale blue horizontal line across the center.

Adapting to Grief During Thanksgiving

Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • November 24, 2021

I recently read an interesting article entitled “How to Survive Thanksgiving Day Grief.” Authored by Chris Raymond and published by verywellhealth.com, this article gives excellent insight into celebrating a holiday while mourning a loved one and offers five tips to support your emotional well-being.

Permit Yourself to Say No. Thanksgiving is a holiday steeped in tradition, but, if this year finds you feeling overwhelmed, take the time to determine how much responsibility you feel comfortable assuming. As the author states, “remind yourself that it’s okay to say ‘no’ as you adjust to life after loss and that those who love you will understand.”

Let It Go. Strive to let go of the perfection we tend to envision when we picture Thanksgiving, and “…give yourself a pass this Thanksgiving by accepting things as they are, even if they fall short of the Norman Rockwell image in your head.”

Take Control of Your Fear. Many people are afraid to remember their loved ones during the holidays, fearing that the memories will be too overwhelming. Instead, “empower yourself by incorporating his or her memory into your Thanksgiving plans. For example, place a favorite photograph of your loved one and a lit candle in a quiet spot that signifies his or her presence in your hearts throughout the day.”

Start Fresh. Traditions are wonderful, “but ask yourself if a particular tradition will really bring you joy this year or if you just feel pressure to do something because you’ve always done it this way and others expect it.” From baking homemade pies to shopping on Black Friday, if it’s too much, consider establishing new traditions.

Know Your Limits. Strive to determine your limits ahead of time. Limit social activity accordingly and attend events that fit your energy and mood. Your emotional well-being is of utmost importance at this time of year.

Serenity Funeral Home wishes you a peaceful and happy Thanksgiving. We are located just off Riverside Dr. at 1316 S. 400 E., Ste. A5, St. George, (435) 986-9100.

Submitted by Larry L. Hansen, Owner/Licensed Funeral Director, Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah.

By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • July 22, 2026
According to CDC data from 1999 to 2014, more deaths occur on a Saturday than any other day of the week. A look at how causes of death vary by day.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • June 15, 2026
Delivering a eulogy is both an honor and a responsibility. What a eulogy should contain, how long it should run, and tips for writing and delivering it.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • March 24, 2026
“Re-grief” refers to the renewed experience of mourning a loss that was previously grieved. It is a normal and healthy process — grief is an experience, not an event.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • December 10, 2025
Looking for ways to contribute to your community this holiday season? Simple but effective ideas for volunteering your time, donating goods, and spreading cheer locally.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • September 9, 2025
Embalming has been practiced for thousands of years. In modern culture it serves three purposes — to sanitize, preserve, and present the body.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • August 12, 2025
“Blue Zone” is a term for geographic regions home to some of the world’s oldest and healthiest people. The five known Blue Zones and what their residents have in common.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • July 8, 2025
Dr. Alan Wolfelt writes that although everyone grieves differently, there are “six needs of mourning” everyone should encounter as they move through the grieving process.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • January 22, 2025
Why is a vault or outer burial container required by most cemeteries? The difference between sealing and non-sealing vaults, and what they protect.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • December 17, 2024
“Just throw me in a pine box.” A funeral director on why funerals do not have to be expensive to be meaningful, and the value of taking time to remember a life.
By Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah • October 8, 2024
Who had the most expensive funeral in modern history? The top contenders — and a reminder that your own funeral will cost a fraction of these.
Show More