(CNN) The overwhelming amount of loss we've experienced during this pandemic is in stark contrast to what is supposedly the happiest time of the year. Grief doesn't just go away, and if you don't want to celebrate the holidays, you don't have to. We are avoidant of grief," Cormier said. Although doing so is socially acceptable on holidays, repercussions could include greater anxiety and reaction to grief triggers, or prolonged grief , which is much more challenging to resolve. Overall, whatever you can do to healthily cope with the holidays and acknowledge your loved ones who are still here is enough.

Source: CNN December 20, 2020 08:03 UTC