The death of a beloved friend or family member is one of life’s greatest challenges. Our staff at St. Pierre Family Funeral & Cremation Services sees firsthand how a loss can turn the world upside down, creating unfamiliar feelings and unexpected reactions. Grief often affects a person physically, emotionally, and even spiritually, as they struggle to adjust to life without their loved one in it.

This is why so many benefit from taking part in a grief group, embracing the opportunity to express feelings with others who understand what they are going through. Some who have lost a loved one wonder if a support group could ever help them. They are so mired in their grief they can’t even imagine sitting down in a room of strangers. But support groups are a time-tested method of help for people struggling with all sorts of difficulties – and grief is definitely among them.

That said, it’s important to find a support group that works for you; one that is free of judgement and offers guidance, validation, and reassurance. Here are four groups our St. Pierre staff recommends:

GriefShare – Support online and in person for adults grieving a loss

GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone. GriefShare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You’ll gain access to valuable GriefShare resources to help you recover from your loss and look forward to rebuilding your life.

Web Healing – Interactive Grief website

Web Healing, the internet’s first interactive grief website, has served the bereaved on the net since 1995. It offers grief discussion boards where men and women can discuss issues related to grief and healing or browse recommended grief books. The site’s originator, Tom Golden, LCSW, is an internationally known psychotherapist, author, and speaker on the topic of healing from loss.

The Compassionate Friends – Support after the death of a child

Whether your family has had a child die (at any age, from any cause), or you are trying to help those who have gone through this life-altering experience, The Compassionate Friends exists to provide friendship, understanding, and hope to those going through the natural grieving process. Through a network of more than 625 chapters with locations in all 50 states, as well as Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, The Compassionate Friends has been supporting bereaved families after the death of a child for four decades.

AARP – Support after the death of a senior citizen

For more than 50 years, AARP has been serving its members and society and creating positive social change. AARP’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for all as we age, leading positive social change and delivering value to members through information, advocacy and service. Here you’ll find articles, discussions, and helpful information on dealing with end-of-life care, the challenges faced by caregivers, and how to deal with grief after a loss.

Remember, no matter where you are in your grief journey, you can always turn to us for advice and assistance. We’ve been serving families in the Marion, Johnson, and Madison County areas for more than 120 years now and have many connections and numerous resources available, including contact information for certified therapists. You can count on us to be there for you – always.