The loss of a loved one is the single most devastating experience anyone can have; checking through their...
The loss of a loved one is the single most devastating experience anyone can have; checking through their personal effects comes in second. This can be emotionally taxing because you will be going through the deceased person's belongings and likely associating many of them with fond memories. Though trying, it is possible to get through it by mentally preparing yourself, seeking out grief support, and being gentle with yourself. These are some helpful tips to help you deal with sentimental belongings of a loved one. There's no need to jump into anything; take your time and figure out if and when you're ready to make a change. Moving too quickly could leave you feeling overwhelmed and ill-prepared. Always remember that things are simply things. It's inevitable that some things will have to go. Consider selling or donating items. Donating their belongings may be an option if getting rid of them is proving difficult. Below are more details on how to deal with sentimental belongings of a loved one.
Wait until you're ready, but recognize when that time comes. This is not something that can ever be done at a convenient time. However, one cannot deny the existence of a certain inevitable. While we agree there is no ideal time to tackle this task, it can eventually become more challenging the longer you put it off. Put in the time and see if you can honestly answer the question, "Do I have the strength to do this?" How will my health and happiness be affected by waiting? Eventually, when the time comes to deal with sentimental belongings of a loved one, you will feel ready to take the leap.
Always keep in mind that things are just things. If you give in to the temptation to assign significance and worth to each of your possessions, you run the risk of becoming overly preoccupied with the material world. Therefore, give yourself some time and remind yourself that the content is nothing more than that. When you realize this, it will be easier for you to get rid of things that aren't particularly special and that you don't have to keep. Another option is to think about making everything more accessible by curating a collection. Keep special paper mementos in a binder or book for easy and enjoyable access whenever you want to reminisce. If you save piles of papers or numerous pounds of clothing, you'll soon find that you can't manage the collection. The goal is to create an atmosphere that is warm and inviting without going overboard with sentimental objects that can help bring back fond memories. It's possible to limit yourself to just one box of keepsakes. You can take your time browsing the selections without feeling overwhelmed by the quantity.
One tip that can help you deal with sentimental belongings of a loved one is taking photographs of these items. The ability of photographs to preserve memories is one of their most remarkable qualities. Photographs have the ability to preserve both new and old memories, which means they can be passed down from one generation to another. Taking pictures of the things that spark happy memories is a useful way to keep those memories close at hand. This also offers the benefit of minimizing the amount of space that is required for their storage. See to it that the photographs are either filed away in a folder or printed out and arranged in a compact photo album.
Do not take on the burden of going through a loved one's belongings on your own after their death. The great thing about family and friends is that you can always rely on them. After someone's passing, it's not always easy to figure out how to declutter their home. It is perfectly normal to experience feelings such as sadness and grief, as well as a wide range of other feelings at various points throughout the process. Don't make the mistake of thinking you can handle everything by yourself. Talk about how you're feeling, and don't be afraid to ask for assistance when you need it. As you work through the process of letting go of their belongings, try your best to exercise patience and kindness toward yourself.
Letting go of things can be hard, even when we sell or donate them, especially things of sentimental value. The worry that you'll need something you've sold or donated down the road is common. But regrets are unproductive emotions, so guard yourself firmly against them. Admit that you will experience moments of regret for letting go, but remind yourself that you will be fine without it. It's possible to have too much stuff to sell or donate. It can be challenging to figure out the most appropriate recipient for a large number of donations. Also, it can be challenging to understand the best approach for selling a product. You can find a plethora of information online that will help you through the process of making a donation of any kind. If you would rather sell them, consider organizing a yard sale.
Distancing emotionally from a deceased person's possessions can be difficult during a period of intense grief. Some tips to help you deal with sentimental belongings of a loved one are; don't rush into anything; instead, recognize when you're ready to make a change, always keep in mind that things are just things, take pictures, take baby steps, and consider selling and donating things.
https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/lost-loved-one-possessions-guide
https://www.thesimplicityhabit.com/how-to-declutter-personal-belongings-after-death/
https://www.empathy.com/personal-belongings/letting-the-little-things-go
https://www.evrmemories.com/knowing-when-it-s-time-to-get-rid-of-their-things
https://whatsyourgrief.com/sorting-through-belongings/
https://www.gogreendrop.com/blog/how-to-let-go-of-sentimental-items/
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.
The duration of grief counseling varies for each individual, depending on the severity of their grief and their progress in therapy. Our therapists will regularly assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
It is completely normal to feel dread or even fear when thinking about the upcoming holiday season. One way to ease your anxiety is by planning ahead and being prepared for how you will deal with tough moments. If there are certain events you know will be difficult, try to come up with an exit strategy beforehand so you can leave if needed. It can also be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor before the holidays to help you manage your expectations and emotions.
There are many ways you can honor your loved one's memory during the holidays. You could decorate in their favorite colors, play their favorite music, make their favorite food, or even just talk about them often throughout the holiday season. You could also create a new tradition in their memory, such as planting a tree or making a donation in their name.
There are a few things you should avoid saying to someone who is grieving, as they can come across as insensitive or unhelpful. For example, don't tell them that it's "time to move on" or that they "should be over it by now." It's also best not to make any assumptions about how they're feeling or what they need – instead, ask them directly how you can help.
It can be difficult to know what to say to someone who is grieving, but sometimes simply being there for them and offering your support can be helpful. You might try saying something like, "I'm here for you if you need to talk" or "I'm sorry for your loss." You could also offer to help with practical tasks such as running errands or cooking meals.
It's important to remember that you are allowed to grieve however you need to, and that doesn't mean you have to ruin the holidays for everyone else. If you need to take a break from holiday festivities, do so. Go for a walk, take a nap, watch a movie—whatever you need to do to take care of yourself. You can also try talking to your family about your grief ahead of time and asking for their understanding and support.
