Losses can extend beyond loved ones.

• Position: Grieving - Brief article

Loss of a loved one, job, or health can dampen the holiday spirit for many people and isolate or separate them from what used to bring happiness, indicates Cynthia Keith, clinical associate professor of nursing at Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind.

"The holidays are often rich in tradition with the gathering of family and friends, music, food, and gift exchanges. When traditions change due to the loss of a loved one, health, and, in recent times, financial security, what was once happy and joyous may be an especially difficult time, leaving many to wonder how to cope and get through it all

"These losses may mean people are celebrating or looking at the holidays in a different way this year. If it's a financial loss, they may feel guilty that they are not able to provide for their family as they have before, and this can certainly add stress to a person's life."

Friends and family members who know someone who is suffering can help by listening and being patient. How people grieve is unique to each person. "Even if it's been two, five, or 10 years since that person's...