DURHAM, N.C. — Grief can be tough to cope with during the holidays. Experts say it’s normal to feel sadness, anger and even relief when you lose someone you love.

What You Need To Know

  • Feelings of grief can arise during holiday gatherings after losing someone you love

  • Mental fitness coach Karla Noland says acknowledging your feelings and checking in with yourself can help overcome grief

  • Noland is hosting a Navigating Grief During the Holidays event 3-5 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Durham Main Library

Certified self-discovery and mental fitness coach Karla Noland from Durham says there are ways to help you navigate grief during the holiday season.

The loss of her mother a day before Thanksgiving in 2019 is the reason she coaches others who may be experiencing the same type of sadness.

“I was in shock and disbelief because when it comes to the holidays, you have all these plans, who’s going to make this dish or that dish and we have all these plans and I miss her laugh, I miss seeing her at that table," Noland said. "Grief is a constant reminder that love never dies.” 

Noland says there are four steps she shares with people to help them overcome grief.

  • Acknowledge your feelings.
  • Check in with yourself.
  • Envision your healing journey.
  • Show yourself love and compassion.

Noland says it’s important to have a support system.

“You are able to create your own support system," she said. "For me, I connected with other people, family members, friends who have lost their moms, and we’re in this club that none of us want to be a part of, but we understand."

Noland is hosting the 2nd annual Navigating Grief During the Holidays event at the Durham Main Library, 3-5 p.m. Dec. 2.

The event is free and registration is required. Head to the Durham Public Main Library’s website to register.