Grief Online Support Group

“Grief is a most peculiar thing; we’re so helpless in the face of it. It’s like a window that will simply open of its own accord. The room grows cold, and we can do nothing but shiver. But it opens a little less each time, and a little less; and one day we wonder what has become of it.” ― Arthur Golden, Memoirs of a Geisha

What is Grief?

Grief is an emotional response to loss, often to loss of someone who one has a deep emotional bond with. This response can also have physical, cognitive, behavior and social dimensions to it. These emotional responses may contain shock, anger, disbelief, guilt and profound sadness. 

Ways to deal with the grieving process:

  1. Recognize your emotional pain

  2. Accept that grief can trigger unexpected emotions

  3. Know that your grieving process is unique to you

  4. Seek out face-to-face support from people who care about you

  5. Support yourself emotionally by taking care of yourself physically

  6. Recognize the difference between grief and depression

Grief sometimes turns into depression. If you feel extremely negative about life, blame yourself for the loss or have suicidal thoughts, seeking professional help can help you get better. 

How Support Groups Can Help?

Support groups are safe spaces structured to allow participants to share personal experiences, feelings, coping strategies and information about the grieving process. The discussions often are facilitated by an experienced leader or a medical professional. 

Grieving a loss is an inevitable part of life, but finding ways to cope with the grieving process can prevent perpetual sadness or depression. Support groups can allow us to make connections, providing tangible benefits to people experiencing mental health issues. 

Benefits of participating in support groups can include:

  • Reducing feelings of loneliness, isolation and stigma resulted from loss

  • Getting practical advice or information about recovery 

  • Reducing distress, depression, anxiety or fatigue in life

  • Talking openly and honestly about your feelings

  • Gaining a sense of empowerment, control or hope

  • Learning about health, economic or social resources

Benefits of online support groups can include:

  • Faster time to get help, skipping appointment wait time

  • More frequent or flexible participation

  • A cost effective way to see a licensed mental health professional

  • A degree of privacy or anonymity comparing to local community support groups

  • Opportunities for people in areas with no face-to-face support groups

You are not alone. Herd is ready to support you.