LOCAL GRIEF SUPPORT PROGRAMS
Sympathy- Wisdom- Understanding

                       


Grief support programs...

After the funeral is done, the cards and flowers have stopped coming, most of your family and friends have drifted away, back to their lives, you may then feel so very much alone.

The shock has worn off, and you are back at work, trying to cope with daily living. You know that people really do care, but they seem so uncomfortable, and don't know how to help or what to say to you. So they stay away. You may even feel like a pariah or outcast. At the time when you really need people the most, you may find yourself dealing with your grief pretty much all alone.

This is where local grief support programs can provide much-needed social support for you. These groups reduce isolation, relieve distress, provide an emotional outlet, and also practical coping strategies and ideas.

It's just such a relief to talk to folks who are going through what you are. They "get it". They understand. They know to let you ventilate your grief.

 

Where to find grief support groups? Look in the yellow pages under "Hospice". They will likely know of any groups in your area. Or try these support websites to locate a group in your town:

LOCAL (OFFLINE) GRIEF SUPPORT PROGRAMS


FOR GRIEVING A LOST CHILD:
 

COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS- www.compassionatefriends.org
Find a local chapter of this organization which provides personal support for those who have lost a child. Seasoned grievers reach out to the newly bereaved, and both are helped to heal. Well established and popular.

BEREAVED PARENTS USA- www.bereavedparentsusa.org
Local support groups are moderated by volunteer bereaved parents in monthly meetings. Website also has informative articles and poems.

CANDLELIGHTERS-  www.candlelighters.org
Childhood cancer support groups. Local programs provide financial assistance and activities to families in need. The website has "Listserve", an online email support group.
 

GROUPS FOR GRIEVING CHILDREN
 

RAINBOWS-  www.rainbows.org
Local peer support groups for grieving children and their families. Groups areled by trained adults. Online newsletter and referrals. "Guiding kids throughlife's storms".

DOUGY CENTERS-  www.dougy.org
Peer support groups for grieving children, at local child grief centers or providers. For children and adults wanting to help a grieving child. Website has an extensive list of books about children and grieving.