SAVANNAH, Ga. () — While the holiday season often brings joy and a sense of unity, it can also highlight absence and loss for some individuals. Many find that their feelings of grief become more pronounced during this festive time.

“You see it in movies and across social media,” explained MJ Jernigan, co-founder of Southern Survivors. “Everyone seems to be celebrating, but for those without family or community, the holidays can amplify their sense of loss.”

Southern Survivors is a local organization dedicated to mental health and trauma support. They facilitate bi-weekly group sessions for adults over 18. As the holidays draw near, they offer special meetings aimed at helping adults navigate feelings of holiday grief.

This season can heighten the experience of loss, not only through the absence of loved ones but also through the loss of cherished traditions.

“Grief isn’t just about losing loved ones,” Jernigan noted. “It can also stem from severing ties with people who were harmful, or from unmet expectations of what the holidays could be. Financial struggles add another layer. During the holidays, these feelings are magnified.”

Co-founder of Southern Survivors Lauren Ehret explained that if someone feels grief, they might isolate themselves because they don’t want to put a damper on the festivities.

“With grief, with grieving loved ones and family, feeling like you’re like holiday blues and negative energy would be dampening someone else’s spirits,” Ehret said. “But that’s not always the case and it’s very important to let other people help you and support you during the times that you need them, especially during the holiday season.”

Organizers recommend that you reach out to someone if you do feel isolated and to never hesitate to call a professional.

“If you’re feeling like you are backed up against a wall and you really have no way to alleviate those feelings, sometimes it might be best to reach out,” group secretary Stephen Ehret said.

They also want to remind everyone that they are not alone when experiencing holiday grief.

“My grandfather passed away quite a few years back and it’s rough for me some years, but I like to go out and just kind of surround myself with doing what he loved,” Stephen said.

“A few years ago, I became disabled,” Ehret said. “So now every Christmas and holiday season, I experience painful flare ups. I’m not ‘allowed’ to physically enjoy the holidays like I used to.”

“My grandfather used to dress up as Santa for church,” Jernigan said. “So, this was a big holiday for him. But I try to honor him by doing little things.”

Southern Survivors held their first holiday grief support meeting right before Christmas and will hold another one the weekend after. To find more information or to join the group, click here.