TRIGGERS: THE AWFUL ROLLER COASTER OF GRIEF

Rain-filled view of a roller coaster as a visual for the grief roller coaster

Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts … Read More

DREADED FIRST TIMES: FACING THE UNEXPECTED MOMENTS OF GRIEF

Woman having moments of grief and sadness sitting on a couch

Your journey through grief and healing will involve many ups and downs. As you confront the reality of the loss and learn to move forward, your struggle begins to change.  The overwhelming waves of grief become less frequent, and some of them will even become less intense.  But after the numbness begins to wear off, and you begin to return … 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 DO YOU DEAL WITH SUICIDE GRIEF?

When you lose someone to suicide, your world is rocked in unique ways. Whether or not you suspected there was a possibility, this grief journey is difficult.  The impact of suicide loss can leave you feeling lost and disoriented, wondering what to do and how to cope with the weight of grief, pain, and confusion. There are aspects of grief … Read More

7 PRACTICAL WAYS TO SUPPORT A GRIEVING PERSON

Grief is a tough process that can leave a person going through it feeling vulnerable, alone, and misunderstood. If you are a friend or family member of someone who is grieving, and you don’t really know how to help them, it’s okay!  Grief is strange and hard to understand- especially if you’ve never gone through it yourself. You may worry … 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

GRIEF IS HARD. YOU NEED TO KNOW YOU DON’T GRIEVE ALONE

The death of a loved one is an experience that is unlike other life events. Grieving is frequently surprising and unwelcome. Loss is also permanent, which can make it feel like the pain of grief will last forever. This is why it’s important to seek out community and grief resources, like our grief support group curriculum.  What Makes Grief So … 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

HOW LONG DOES GRIEF LAST? AND COPING STRATEGIES THAT WORK

Most people who have experienced grief find themselves wondering how long the pain is going to last. Unfortunately, there isn’t a timeline for healing.  The duration of the grieving process varies from person to person, depending on how they care for themselves. It is important to remember that no matter how long it takes, there is always hope beyond grief.  … Read More

WHY JOIN A GRIEF GROUP? GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP BENEFITS

Everyone will experience loss at some point. The death of a loved one is difficult to process. That is one reason grief groups were invented. Recognizing that a supportive community makes grieving a little easier to navigate.  The Benefits of a Grief Support Group A good grief and loss support group can make all the difference in equipping people to … Read More