Grief and Bereavement

Understanding the Emotional Impact of Loss

Grief is the emotional pain that comes with losing someone or something important. It can bring a wide range of feelings, from sadness and confusion to anger and guilt. Some people begin grieving before the actual loss, especially in cases of terminal illness. There is no “right” way to grieve—each person’s experience is unique, and there’s no set timeline for healing. Emotions can change daily, and that’s okay.

Finding Personal Paths to Healing and Support

Coping with grief takes time, patience, and support. Talking to family, friends, or a counselor can help ease feelings of sadness and isolation. For many, creating new routines or honoring their loved one’s memory through personal rituals can be comforting.

Self-care is equally important; getting enough rest, eating well, and allowing time to heal can make a big difference. Some people find comfort in journaling or expressing their emotions through creative outlets like art or music. The most important thing is to find what works best for you, as each person’s grieving process is different.

Helping Children Cope with Loss in an Age-Appropriate Way

Children experience grief differently than adults. They may not express their emotions verbally but might show their grief through changes in behavior, such as acting out or becoming withdrawn. It’s essential to approach their needs with honesty, openness, and reassurance. 

Answering their questions in an age-appropriate way and allowing them to express emotions without judgment can help them feel safe. Creative outlets like drawing or playing can also be powerful tools for children to process their feelings. By offering support early on, you can help them build emotional resilience for the future.

Coping with the Loss of a Loved One During Special Times

Holidays can be particularly difficult when grieving the loss of a loved one. What once brought joy may now trigger feelings of sadness and longing. It's common to feel torn between honoring past traditions and embracing the present. Planning ahead and adjusting expectations can help ease the emotional burden during these times.

Some may find comfort in creating new traditions to honor their loved one’s memory, while others might prefer to scale back holiday activities altogether. The key is to listen to your own needs and not feel pressured to celebrate in any specific way.

Care doesn’t end when a loved one passes. We offer bereavement services to help families navigate the emotional challenges of grief. Our compassionate counselors provide one-on-one support and group sessions to offer comfort and healing during this difficult time.

These services are available to all families, regardless of the hospice care their loved one received. Grief is a personal journey, and we are here to offer guidance and support every step of the way.