I recently attended a local bereavement group, which was a significant step for me. During the session, we all opened up about our experiences, and I couldn’t help notice that some people were in their first year of grieving the loss of their child. In contrast, I am eight years into my own journey, and for a moment, I questioned whether I belonged there. My grief has evolved over time, and I found myself less emotional than the others in the group. However, as the evening came to a close, I was approached by several individuals who expressed their gratitude. They shared that my presence and willingness to share my story gave them hope for their own healing process. It was a powerful reminder that even though my grief may not be as raw, my story still holds value and can inspire others to find hope in their own journey.

Bereavement groups come in all shapes and sizes. They are like a cozy blanket for your soul and there is an unwritten rule that whatever you share within the group, stays in the group. They provide a place where you can openly express your feelings, share memories, and seek comfort from others who are walking a similar path. Think of it as a hug for your heart during a time when it feels like it’s in a wrestling match with sadness. Whether you prefer face-to-face interactions or virtual support, there’s a group out there that can cater to your needs and you can select a community that understands your grief. It doesn’t matter if you are newly bereaved or whether you are a few years down the line, you will be welcomed into the group because we all have something to offer.

In the bereavement group I went to, we shared personal stories and talked about things we could never talk about with people outside the world of child loss. We shared funny anecdotes, tearful memories, and we opened up about our experiences. We laughed and cried as the tissue box was slid up and down the table, like a whisky shot on a bar. (Apologies for the clumsy analogy – You had to be there!) We shared cake, kindness and comfort making us feel less alone. It certainly helped me to lighten the heaviness in my heart and I knew I had found my tribe!

Potential Benefits of Attending a Bereavement Group.

• One of the main benefits of attending a bereavement group is the emotional support and understanding that members provide to each other.
• Bereavement groups offer a non-judgmental space where members can freely express their thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism. This environment allows for honest and open discussions about grief.
• In addition to emotional support, bereavement groups can also provide members with coping strategies and tools to navigate their grief in a healthy way.
• Another key benefit of attending a bereavement group is the validation and normalisation of grief that members experience.
• By hearing others’ stories and experiences, members of bereavement groups can recognize common feelings and reactions to grief. This validation can help individuals feel more understood and supported in their grief.  It is so important to feel heard and understood.
• Within a bereavement group, members uplift and encourage each other. Knowing that you have a community of people cheering you on can be incredibly empowering during a time of loss.
• Participating in a bereavement group can be a catalyst for personal growth and transformation. By confronting your grief in a supportive environment, you may discover newfound strength and resilience.
• It also encourages bonding through shared narratives.

This is my favourite Ram Dass quote. “We are all just walking each other home.” 

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