Grief

These past two years have been traumatizing for everyone. The COVID-19 pandemic affected all of us in one way or another. Many of us dealt with difficult daily life stressors, not only the pandemic. The pandemic left us with unresolved profound grief, stress, anxiety, and depression. Statistically speaking, many of us will experience prolonged anguish for a very long time if not dealt with.

For me personally, I was very affected by the stay-at-home orders and social distancing. Relationships were strained because of social distancing. There were multiple ways to cope, including trying to stay connected via virtual family time, being creative, and making it work. I do recognize that good things resulted from the adversity. We were forced to get outside more, exercise at home, engage in new hobbies, and do new things. Those who lost loved ones from COVID-19 or any other way are still suffering. 

I was compelled to provide a grief support group because tragic loss hit home. I witnessed people very close to me suffer inconsolably. Their feelings of hopelessness made me feel like my hands were tied. I wanted to offer them a safe space where they could be themselves without judgment. It’s nice to be able to identify with someone who experiences the same feelings as you. I believe in support groups. When I couldn’t afford therapy, support groups were my therapy. A lot of my dearest friends came from those rooms. 

I did my homework, attended trainings, and learned as much I could to provide the best resources. I am now a certified Prolonged Grief Therapist. 

One of the things I would like the participants to take away from the group is the understanding that everyone grieves in their own way and in their own time. Some people recover from grief and resume their normal activities within a short period of time. The grieving process often involves many difficult and complicated emotions. Yet, we can be content, embrace joy, change, and humor in the now. I promote self-care, social support, and goal setting as part of the recovery process. 

Grieving can be difficult, whether it is due to death, a breakup, moving, or other circumstances. One of the hardest challenges is adjusting to the new reality. Adjusting is challenging. My hope is for the participants to leave feeling hopeful, more secure in their supportive relationships, and open to the idea that finding meaning is possible.  

We don’t completely recover. However, time typically tempers the intensity of grief. It’s important to be able to recognize the symptoms of prolonged grief and get the appropriate services. One of the things I emphasized in the group is the importance of having a psychotherapist along with group participation. Many time just attending the group is not enough. A qualified professional would be ideal. 

My goal is not just to educate and offer a supportive environment, but I also would like to pass on helpful resources. Everyone has individual needs, and there are unique resources for everyone. Some support services might be family and friends, faith or grief counselors. 

The first cycle of the support group was a success. I suspected that the participants would maintain their bond and stay in contact. I was right. They all became close and plan to continue to support each other.