Grief and Trauma

Birthdays, Anniversaries, and Other Special Days

When we are grieving, some days are more difficult than others. Grief comes in waves like the sea and can feel like an intertwining labyrinth of emotions. Birthdays, anniversaries, and special dates that are associated with our loved one who has died can contribute to more emotionally intense days which can be worsened through the anticipation and “what ifs” of the upcoming day. These difficult days can leave us feeling defeated and it can almost feel like we’ve taken two steps backward in our grieving process, but grief does not have a timeline, and these feelings of setbacks are opportunities for healing.

Brenda and Dale – “Being self aware”

Brenda and Dale talk about self care. They continue to grieve the death of their son by suicide.

Sarah K – Be gentle

Sarah shares what what she has learned to help someone going through what she has been through

Donna B – “Grief Dreams”

Donna discusses dreams and reality. Donna continues to grieve the death her son during service in Afghanistan.

John Martin – Recognize What Your Loss Means For You Now And In The Future

John discusses what comes next after initial shock

Sarah K – Coping

Sarah discusses how she copes with this unbelievably painful loss

Shannon – Power of Presence

Shannon discusses how just showing up, being present is a powerful way of supporting to someone who has lost. Listen more – talk less.

Brenda and Dale – “What is grief”

Brenda and Dale talk about their grief journey.They continue to grieve the death of their son by suicide.

Christian – “Remembering together in a meaningful way”

Christian discusses the power of memories.

John Martin – The Trauma of Loss and Grief

John discusses trauma and grief

Collective Grief

When the death of a person affects many members in a community, city, country, or across the world, people will experience collective grief.

These are some things that can help people through the experience of collective grief across a community.

Sarah K – Humour to cope

Sarah discuss how humour has been a tool in helping her to cope