Bereavement Professionals’ Insights

Keith – “Disenfranchised Grief”

Keith describes disenfranchised grief.

Shannon – Guilt vs Shame

Shannon talks about guilt can be a part of the grieving process but shame has to do with “is there something wrong with me”

Madelyn – Holding space

Madelyn explains how holding space can help anyone in grief

Janice – “Not feeling grief when someone dies”

Janice talks about why some people don’t feel grief and what it may mean.

Rev. Sky – “Sharing”

Rev. Sky explains how sharing helps you heal.

Alongside

That is also our best, and only role, when supporting a person with a developmental disability to grieve. We must be the one that comes alongside. There is no closer place we can get to. We must be present, be with, perhaps not understanding or comprehending what the person we support is experiencing, but alongside them nonetheless. We must be there, ready to provide whatever we can discover of their unique need in grief.

Michele – Expressive arts and healing grief

Michele defines expressive arts and how they can help healing in grief

Jenn – In grief an art therapist can be there to walk with you

Jenn discusses how an art therapists can support you in those moments of pain. They are there to honour your stories and experiences.

Sara – Lyrics

Sara talks about how lyrics can have an impact on how we experience music

Rev. Sky – “Emotions”

Rev. Sky talks about the emotions that come along with loss and outlets that can help.

Keith – “You need not be alone”

Keith discusses getting help, resources and that you don’t need to be alone.

Marija – Acknowledging feelings

Marija talks about our tools for coping