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Grief Support Guide

Supporting yourself and others in grief

Helpful strategies for navigating the path to healing.

Experiencing grief is a unique and individual journey. It can take so many forms and you often don't know how you'll react until you're living through it. But that's okay. There are no right or wrong ways to approach grief. All you can do is try to deal with your feelings in a way that feels right to you.

Continue reading to find helpful tools and strategies for navigating the path to healing, both for yourself and others.

Get support from the comfort of your own home.

You don't have to face grief alone - even if you're not ready to ask others for help. Our interactive grief support videos can be a valuable resource in understanding and processing your emotions. Dr. Virginia Simpson, an Executive Counseling Director, guides you through the dimensions and dynamics of grief, helpin

Support your family, even the littlest ones.

Children may not understand the details and specifics, but they can often surprise you with their sensitivity and instinctual way of detecting grief. Find ways to help them celebrate the life of your loved one and enjoy happy stories and memories. Our Youth & Funerals eBook is a great place to start, offering advice and guidance for navigating the difficult topics of death and funerals with your children.

It's important to listen to them and pay close attention to their feelings and needs. If you sense any serious change in behavior, talk to them to try to get to the root of their feelings.

For additional guidance, refer to this great resource from Sesame Street, which will help your family move forward in a healthy and educated manner.

Learn about each and every way you can support others.

When it comes to supporting a family member or friend, it's natural to feel unsure about what to say or do. Here are a few powerful ways you can comfort and uplift your loved ones during this difficult time:

  • Share memories. Stories and memories can be incredibly therapeutic to work through grief.
  • Be there for them. Make sure they know that you're there for them, at any hour, for anything - whether it's as a shoulder to cry on or to help prepare for their loved one's service.
  • Listen. All too often, we forget how important just listening can be.
  • Give a small gift to show your love and support. It could be flowers, a favorite food, or a book that brings them joy. Small gifts show that you're thinking of them.

Reach out for help.

No one should have to experience grief alone. If you're struggling, reach out to friends and family and let them know that you need them. There's no shame in asking for help.

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