Grief Awareness Day August 30

Special to Seniors Today

On August 30, National Grief Awareness Day recognizes the time it takes to heal from loss and is a reminder closure comes in many forms. When a loved one dies, the void they leave affects everyone differently.

Throughout the day, take stock of those in your life who have been affected by a form of loss. The death of a loved one, a close friend, or enduring an extreme change in their lifestyle can trigger grief. When we lose the stability of shelter, a job, or a routine we have known for years, we suffer a type of loss that requires closure. Some adjust to these changes easily, and others take time to become familiar with new routines.

Healing from loss is a journey, everyone experiences grief differently. There’s no right way to grieve. Feeling angry or full of regret? Are you depressed and wondering how to heal? Do you walk around in a mental fog? All this is normal. While your grief journey is unique, you’ll find many grieving people are facing the same struggles. Others who’ve gone before you can help.

Grief cannot be rushed. You may wish you could bypass the difficult emotions or push down the pain. Maybe others are pressuring you to “get up and move on.” Healing from grief and loss requires you to go through your grief. We have resources that can help you find relief and stability.

Finding support is crucial. Grief is a journey that shouldn’t be traveled alone. You may feel like no one understands and be tempted to isolate, but as counselor David Bueno Martin says, “Healing happens in the context of finding others who can help you.”

If grief is part of your life consider this weekly seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life after losing a loved one. Seminar and support group will be offered on Sat., 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. from Sept. 9th to Dec. 2nd at First United Methodist Church of Ormond Beach, 336 S. Halifax Dr. Workbooks are $25. For more information or to register, contact Nancy at nkleinsmith@cfl.rr.com or call the church office at 368.677.3581.