Grief
Support Groups
Doesn't talking about grief make people feel worse?
"Grief shared is grief lessened."
That is the beautiful truth about why grief support groups can
be a tremendous help when we are in the throes of grief. It
takes courage to face our pain, feel it, learn from it, and
yield ourselves to where it leads us.
Many people are under the impression
that if we "just don't talk about it," grief will
eventually fade away. They are wrong. Unexpressed grief can
stay buried for years, but it will resurface and demand our
attention when we least expect it, often through physical or
emotional illness.
When are the support groups held?
Columbia Montour Home Hospice offers
quality grief support groups several times throughout the year
(call 784-1723 for dates and time). Groups typically run for
seven consecutive weeks. Participants begin the groups together
and finish together. Those who can commit to attending all seven
sessions benefit the most, as each week "builds" on
what was discussed during the previous session.
Do the groups have someone "in
charge?"
Our groups have a facilitator who strives
to create a welcoming and safe atmosphere. No one is pressured
to speak. Confidentiality is emphasized. The facilitator ensures
that the sessions begin and end on time and that no one monopolizes
the entire meeting.
Is there a plan for each session?
Each of the seven weeks focuses on a
different topic related to grief, and yet we are flexible when
topics must be shifted to meet the needs of members. Participants
receive handouts to take home for further reading and there
are "homework assignments" which give members the
opportunity to do some important reminiscing and promote a deeper
self-awareness.
Aren't people uncomfortable about sharing their grief?
As members receive education about the
grieving process, their anxiety is reduced. As they begin to
express their pain, the heaviness of grief begins to lighten.
As they learn to give and receive support, their isolation disappears.
Members begin to focus on their strengths and learn to trust
themselves again. Laughter returns. Hope flickers anew.
Do members ever become friends
while attending a support group?
Many people who balked at the idea of
joining a group are sad when the sessions end. Often members
continue to stay in touch with their "new friends"
long after the group has stopped meeting.
What should I do if I'm considering a support group?
The road to healing has many twists and
turns. But thankfully we don't have to walk it alone. Help is
available for the journey. For more information about grief
support groups, please call Sandra Hare at 570-784-1723.
|
