For an initial discussion around grief and loss, here are some talking points:

Some different kinds of grief –

• Anticipatory
• Delayed
• Extended
• Complicated

Some different reasons for grief –

• Loss of a relationship through distance or death
• Loss of a source of meaning – an activity such as a job
• Loss of a dream – realizing that a dream for self or others will never be fulfilled
• Loss of autonomy and independence due to injury, illness or general decline
• With autonomy come/go dignity, self-esteem, self-respect, pride,

Some different expressions of grief –

• Anger – at self, others, situations, or God
• Frustration with people and circumstances
• Hopelessness and futility
• Depression
• Grasping at control
• Physiological symptoms – pain, lethargy, sleeplessness, restlessness, sleepiness, increased risk of injury or illness

How do we help ourselves and others?

• Normalize grief within the community.
• Recognize the symptoms/expressions of grief.
• Recognize that grief is natural, normal, universal, and even healthy.
• Claim the right to grieve.
• Communicate the experience in safe places.
• Give others permission and space to grieve in their own ways.
• Invite others to talk and describe their own journey. Name the losses.
• Resist imposing our understandings on another’s experiences

For a pdf of this page click here: Grief and Loss Discussion