Honoring National Grief and Bereavement Day
November 18th, National Grief and Bereavement Day, is a time to pause and honor the courage it takes to grieve. While there’s no “right” way to grieve, there are compassionate ways to support yourself along the journey. Here are some gentle reminders:
• Embrace gentleness. Your body and soul need time to heal. Rest when you can, nourish yourself with good food, and speak kindly to yourself.
• Accept and seek help. Support is essential – whether that means leaning on friends, family, or reaching out to a professional.
• Stay connected. Isolation can deepen sorrow. Spending time with loved ones or joining a support group can help lighten the burden.
• Express your feelings. Talk, write, cry, sing, or move – whatever helps you process your emotions. Try different ways until you find what works for you.
• Be patient. Healing takes time. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or lost – and it’s also okay to feel joy, to laugh, and to experience moments of peace. You don’t need to feel guilty for those feelings; they are part of the healing process.
Grief affects those around us, too. Friends and family may struggle to know what to say or do. Letting them know it’s okay to talk about your loss can open the door to meaningful connection. If children are part of your life, reassure them often and model healthy ways to express emotions.
Finding Meaning and Support
Grief is not just about letting go – it’s about finding new ways to hold on. As grief educator Dr. Alan Wolfelt reminds us, healing involves not only mourning the loss but also finding meaning, rediscovering a sense of self, and building a support system to walk beside you through the months and years ahead.
For many, losing someone to suicide carries unique pain and complexity. Through its trusted network of community-based agencies, including Moose Jaw Family Services – Family Service Saskatchewan offers Rapid Access Counselling (RAC), including a specialized program for those impacted by suicide loss. This specialized support is available virtually across Saskatchewan, free of charge and without a referral.
To learn more or book an appointment, visit www.counsellingconnectsask.ca.
On this National Grief and Bereavement Day, let’s take a moment to hold space for ourselves and each other. Whether your grief is fresh or years old, it matters. By sharing our stories, reaching out for support, and offering kindness to ourselves and others, we can walk this journey together; reminding one another that no one needs to face loss alone.
