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Journeys Support Group Helps Families Heal After Loss

Each year millions of people die in the United States, most of whom leave behind friends and family members who mourn their loss. Grief is defined as “deep sorrow, especially that caused by someone’s death” (Google, 2019). Grief affects each person differently, sometimes causing behavioral changes, emotional turmoil, physical discomfort or symptoms, and even spiritual distress. People often feel isolated and don’t believe that anyone can understand.

Grief support groups can often help with many of the issues that crop up when we grieve. In an article entitled “Benefits of Grief Support Groups,” Patti Cox shares a list of some of the many benefits that participants can experience from grief support groups. Read the whole article here. Here are just a few benefits she mentions:

  • Emotional and physical support in a safe, nonjudgmental environment
  • Hope through companionship with people who “get it” and understand first-hand what you’re going through
  • Increased understanding of how children and other family members react to loss
  • Permission to grieve and permission to live a happy productive life (HelloGrief.org, 2010)

Journeys support group, offered by Calvert Hospice, provides the benefits mentioned above and more for adults and children who are grieving. In a poll of 531 bereaved children and teenagers conducted by the National Alliance for Grieving Children, 76% of the children listed meeting other children who are going through grief like them as the best part of attending grief support groups (National Alliance for Grieving Children, 2012). However, it’s important for adults to remember that they can benefit just as much as children from specialized grief support. Journeys is designed to provide children who participate with emotional support, coping skills, and many different opportunities to share with other kids who “get it.” But it doesn’t stop there. Adults are also able to receive support, learn more about helping their children through the grieving process, and get to know other adults who are in similar situations.

If you and your family could benefit from this type of support, please contact Jess Foster by clicking here or calling (410) 535-0892, ext. 2206.