Grief Support

French poet Alphonse De Lamartine once said, “Grief knits two hearts in closer bonds than happiness ever can; and common sufferings are far stronger links than common joys.” For that reason, many people who have experienced the loss of a loved one find solace in grief support groups. Talking with others who are also suffering can lessen your pain. 

If you have reached a point in your grief that you are ready to reach out for support, consider joining a group in your local area. There is no prescribed time to join a support group. Some people attend right away after the death of a loved one. Others don’t feel comfortable about going until months after the funeral.

There are many support groups that are based on particular illnesses or situations (i.e. those who have lost a loved one to suicide). Support groups not only offer camaraderie, many offer informative seminars, facilitated discussions, and study materials as well. 

You’ll know it’s time to leave the group when you feel like you’ve learned all you can from them.  You may want to attend less frequently for a while rather than quitting all at once. If you feel like you are still deeply struggling with your grief even after attending a support group for some time, it may be helpful to get some one-on-one counseling.