Supporting Others

Lyss – Therapy and the right fit

Lyss talks about therapy and finding the right fit

A Million Other Things: Grieving a Drug Poisoning Death

Sister, father, son, niece, best friend – some of these words might be how you would describe your loved one who has died of an overdose or drug poisoning. People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) are not defined by their substance use – they are a million other things to those who love and miss them dearly. Drug poisoning and overdose deaths are stigmatized in our society. The focus is on how the person died, not who they are. Society still holds onto old notions and beliefs about drugs which come with a value judgment about people who use drugs, which further contributes to stigma. Not everyone who uses drugs is an addict and not all drug use is inherently problematic. People who use drugs deserve dignity and respect when we are remembering and honouring those who have died by overdose or drug poisoning.

Amanda – “Ministry of Presence”

Amanda discusses how being present with someone can be helpful.

Kate – Trust and listening

Kate – explains how having someone you trust is super important so that you can have a space space to go to

Betsy – Adoption and grief

Betsy tell her story of losing her adopted son to cancer

Keith – “Knowing what to say”

Keith gives practical advice about helping someone in grief.

Jacqueline – How to help a grieving friend

Jacqueline discusses the power of just being there with someone in grief

Jean – Be good to yourself

Jean shares about support and not being hard on yourself

Lisa -Advice to grievers

Lisa explains her thoughts about how to help someone in grief

Valmy – Checking in on someone is good

Valmy explains how helpful it is to check in on someone who is grieving

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

John discusses what comes next after initial shock

Amber – Talking to your kids about death

Amber talks about how important it is to talk about grief, especially with kids