LOUISVILLE, Ky. — While many look to the holidays as a time of joy and gathering, others might be experiencing grief for loved ones not around.
Lisa Prewitt with UofL Health Peace Hospital told WHAS11 News some tips she had on how to navigate the holidays, especially after losing someone.
The first thing she said was be patient with yourself, and have a back up plan if you're not feeling the traditional holiday gatherings.
And that it's okay to not feel up for it, but try to let your loved ones know what to expect.
"And we always want to spend those days with the people we treasure most and when that person is no, no longer there, you know, there is a piece of you that you felt like is missing," Prewitt said. "And it's very difficult."
She added if you know someone experiencing grief, to try and extend a friendly invitation.
"We all need to be loved, we all want to belong," Prewitt said. "And I know at times when someone is missing from the table, you feel like your heart is broken. So just extending, you know, that olive branch and making that phone call and offering that support is so important this time of year."
She emphasized it's okay if this holiday season looks a little bit different, and that it could be a good time to set new traditions.
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