Back To School After the Death of a Loved One

Chalk board and school supplies. Message reads: Back to school after the death of a loved one, encouragement for students, teachers and staff

Encouragement for Grieving Students, Teachers and School Staff For many families, the beginning of a new school year is filled with anticipation. Back to school means many new and exciting things ahead. But for grieving students, teachers, administrators, and school staff, the summer has brought unimaginable loss. During those months away from school, someone they dearly loved died. Perhaps it was … Read More

THE COMPLICATED GRIEF SUICIDE LOSS SURVIVORS FACE

 Grief is pain beyond comprehension for those who have not yet felt it. It can feel hopeless, and it is a sobering realization that you will never see the one you love in your earthly life again. Grieving a suicide is a uniquely complex form of grief. There are a lot of emotions and a lot of complexity that you … Read More

GRIEF CARE: HOW TO SUPPORT THOSE DEALING WITH GRIEF

Losing a loved one is difficult. Someone you cared about and may have even seen on a daily basis is now no longer with you. It’s a drastic change, and it can leave us feeling hopeless. That’s why grief care is important.  Grief care is a ministry to reach out to people who are hurting. Maybe that is right after … Read More

How to Help Someone Who is Grieving: 7 Practical Ways

When someone you care about is grieving, you may feel at a loss as to how to help them. The good news is, you don’t need to fix their grief, or have the right words. You can support a grieving person well with small, consistent acts of kindness and presence. This will remind them they’re not alone. The seven suggestions … Read More

IS COMFORT OR CHEER THE BEST WAY TO SUPPORT SOMEONE WHO IS GRIEVING?

When someone has experienced loss, it can be tricky to know what to do or say. “Should I ask someone who is grieving how she’s feeling?” “Is it appropriate to try to cheer her up or get her to laugh?”  Knowing the exact right thing to say or do is difficult, and it is very dependent on the person who … Read More

4 WAYS TO HELP A GRIEVING FRIEND: HOW TO SUPPORT SOMEONE THROUGH GRIEF

Grieving the death of a loved one is a unique and difficult experience. People have lots of overwhelming emotions and need support along the way. Someone you know is deep in the midst of grief and loss. You want to help a grieving friend, but what do you say to make anything better? Especially when nothing you say to someone … Read More

SO, WHAT SHOULD GO IN A GRIEF CARE PACKAGE?

Grief is one of the most challenging and overwhelming experiences a person can go through. When anyone we care about is hurting, it’s natural to want to reach out. But finding the right words or gestures can feel impossible. Making a care package for someone grieving is one meaningful way to show support. It’s a quiet reminder that they are … Read More

GRIEF AND LONELINESS: FINDING SUPPORT IN TIMES OF LOSS

When someone dies, you often have a group of friends and connections who rally around you. There are many offers of help and company. But after a bit, others return to their lives, making us feel like no one cares. After a while, things slow down. People don’t reach out as often. Friends stop asking you how you’re feeling, and … Read More

 7 Worst Things To Say To Someone Going Through Grief and Loss

Have you ever been the person at a funeral to show support, but you’re worried you’ll say the wrong thing? Maybe you’ve heard that some of the most well-meaning statements can be the worst things to say to someone in grief. And you want to learn how to offer real comfort rather than add to their pain. The good news … Read More

WHEN THE CALENDAR HURTS: HELPING GRIEVERS NAVIGATE SPECIAL DATES

distorted clock and calendar--when the calendar hurts

There are times when the calendar brings joy. There are times when the calendar hurts. And sometimes, the date on the calendar is the source of both intense feelings at the same time. Recently, Americans celebrated the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, and communities across the country gathered for parades, fireworks, concerts, family reunions, and patriotic celebrations. For many, … Read More