Curative Effects of a Grief Group

Death is a subject that we all must face at some time, either when we lose loved ones, or when we contemplate our own mortality. Different people respond to bereavement in different ways, and the death of a loved one can dredge up feelings such as guilt, unresolved anger, or a sense of complete isolation. Grief groups offer the space and support to share and explore the experience of loss.

Providing a Support Community

• The loss of a loved one can shatter a bereaved person's sense of security. If the lost loved one was a major support in her life, the bereaved person can feel alone and isolated. Grief groups provide an understanding community, where the bereaved can come together, share their experiences of loss and how these experiences affect their lives.

A Reason to Leave the House

• The deep depression that can come with bereavement can cause some people to lose the will to go out in public. It's difficult to do normal things such as shopping, because the rest of the world seems to go merrily along, without a care. This feeling of disconnection is a normal consequence of grief and trauma. The grief group provides a reason for the bereaved person to leave the house and spend time in the company of others who understand what she's feeling. There are no social expectations for her to behave more positively than she's actually feeling.

Talking Helps

• When processing grief, the bereaved person can become preoccupied with inner thoughts and feelings. These can become overwhelming if they're not shared with others. Talking is a way of releasing fears and worries, and freeing the internal flood of grief that can dominate the bereaved person's mind. Modern Western societies tend not to talk openly about death, so a grief group provides a community where these essential conversations can take place.

Coping Skills

• There can be great relief in sharing difficult experiences with others, and finding coping strategies together. The grief group community may share ways to remember their loved ones in ways that are gentle and not too painful. If the bereaved person has to carry on with life responsibilities such as parenting, the group can share ways of coping with having to carry on with the normal routine, while dealing with the pain of loss.