Transitions
The death of a life partner is well recognized as an emotionally devastating event, being ranked on life event scales as the most stressful of all possible losses. The intensity and persistence of the pain associated is thought to be due to the quality of the bonds linking partners to each other.
When you lose a spouse, you not only lose a romantic partner, but also a best friend, a confidant, and the main person, who makes you feel special, important, and unconditionally loved. Coping with this profound loss can feel unbearable and very lonely.
Although there is no data to imply that all bereaved people need or want formal interventions, support groups can provide bereaved individuals with a place to tell their story and talk openly. Support groups can provide a safe setting for bereaved individuals to be authentic as they grieve and work through their loss.
By introducing people to others who are going through a similar experience, support groups offer a way in which to “normalize” the grief experience and validate feelings. Groups can offer opportunities to learn new roles, new ways of problem-solving, or coping by being involved in discussions with the facilitator and listening to the experiences of others.
Join us on Wednesdays from March 6 to April 10, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Classes will be hybrid:
In Person
Classes will be at the A & O Boardroom at 200-207 Donald Street
Zoom
The Zoom app is accessible to participants on their Smartphones, iPads or home computers.
Goals:
- To provide a safe setting to share stories of loss with others
- To validate and affirm feelings and experiences of the newly-bereaved and offer hope
- To promote the development of new coping skills
- To alleviate isolation and loneliness that may be part of the grief experience
Topics / Sessions:
Week 1: Introduction - Exploring the Myths and Misconceptions about Grief and Grieving
Week 2: Ripples in a Pond - Primary and Secondary Losses
Week 3: Riding the Roller Coaster of Emotions
Week 4: Surfing the Waves
Week 5: The Butterfly Effect – Transformation
Week 6: Moving Forward - Setting Goals, Finding a New Purpose