Grief Support
Explore our articles about grief support
What is Delayed Grief?
This comprehensive guide explores the causes of delayed grief, how to recognize it, and strategies for processing these intense emotions when they finally surface.
Understanding Grief Hallucinations
This guide explains why grief hallucinations happen, how they differ from mental illness symptoms, and offers strategies for coping with these unsettling but common experiences.
The Cost of Avoiding Grief in the Workplace: A Hidden Drain on Productivity and Morale
When organizations ignore grief, they face significant hidden costs including decreased productivity, higher turnover, and damaged company culture. This guide explores seven hidden impacts of unaddressed grief and provides practical strategies for creating a more compassionate, supportive workplace.
Types of Grief: A Comprehensive Guide
Grief manifests in countless ways beyond what we consider "normal." This comprehensive guide explores 12 distinct types of grief—from complicated and cumulative to disenfranchised and traumatic—with specific characteristics and coping strategies for each unique grief experience.
Sex, Intimacy, and Grief: Navigating Relationships After Loss
This comprehensive guide explores the challenges grieving couples face, offers practical strategies for rebuilding connection, and highlights Canadian resources for healing both individually and as partners.
The Profound Impact of Pet Loss on Children
For many children, losing a family pet is their first encounter with death. This guide explains how to help children navigate their emotions, engage in healing rituals, and use this difficult experience as an opportunity for growth and understanding about life's natural cycles.
Grief Beyond Death: Understanding the Many Forms of Loss
Grief extends far beyond losing a loved one to death. This guide explores seven often-overlooked forms of grief—from illness and disability to addiction, identity changes, and environmental loss—with practical coping strategies and resources for healing.
Is Grief An Emotion?
Grief is more than just sadness—it's a symphony of emotions that each play their part in the healing process. Discover how different feelings intertwine during grief, find valuable resources for support, and learn why every emotion deserves acknowledgment on your journey toward healing.
What P.S. I Love You Teaches Us About Love, Death, and Grief
This article examines how the movie illustrates the enduring power of love, the complex reality of grief, the importance of support systems, and the possibility of healing while honoring cherished memories.
How to Cope with Grief
Grief is a natural response to loss, but navigating it can feel overwhelming. Whether you have lost a loved one, a pet, a relationship, or a significant part of your life, the emotions that come with grief are deeply personal and unique to each person.
Incorporating Memorial Elements into Your Home Decor
This guide explores tasteful display ideas, tips for creating memory corners, and how to balance commemoration with daily life, including innovative options like Parting Stone solidified remains.
Creating a Memorial Garden: A Living Tribute
This guide explores garden design ideas, tips for choosing meaningful plants, and ways to incorporate personal memorial elements, including Parting Stone solidified remains.
Meaningful Ways to Honour a Loved One's Memory
Finding meaningful ways to honour a loved one’s memory can provide comfort and a sense of connection during a time of loss. Whether it’s through creative memorial ideas, personal tributes, or creating lasting legacies, there are countless ways to keep their spirit alive.
Pet Loss Support Services in Nova Scotia
This guide highlights the pet loss support services in Nova Scotia, from grief counseling to memorial options, ensuring pet owners have the tools they need to find solace and healing.
Discovering Your Roots: A Complete Guide to Family Trees and Genealogy Research
Whether you're curious about your ancestors or want to leave a detailed family history for future generations, genealogy research has never been more accessible. With modern technology and DNA testing complementing traditional research methods, you can uncover your family story in remarkable detail.
How is Grief Individualized?
This article explores the various factors that contribute to the personalized nature of grief and how this understanding can inform better support and coping strategies.
Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Spouse
Remember, the most important aspect of a condolence message is to be genuine and offer your support. Tailor your message to your relationship with the bereaved and the specific circumstances.
Grief and Loss in Peterborough, Ontario
Grief is a complex and deeply personal experience. When faced with the loss of a loved one, individuals and families in Peterborough, Ontario, may find themselves navigating a challenging emotional landscape.
A Lifeline in Your Pocket: Grief Support Hotlines in Canada
Struggling with grief in Canada? Hotlines offer immediate comfort, anonymity & resources 24/7. Find the right hotline for your needs & begin your healing journey.
Finding Solace in Shared Sorrow: Exploring the Effectiveness of Grief Support Groups
Lost in grief? Groups offer comfort, share & hope. Learn if they're right for you.
Introducing Grief Companion: A Revolutionary AI Tool for Navigating Loss
Eirene introduces Grief Companion, an AI-powered tool providing 24/7 personalized support for those experiencing loss. This affordable solution bridges gaps in traditional grief support, offering a judgment-free space for expression.
Types of Child Loss: The Profound Grief of Losing a Child
Losing a child is an unimaginable tragedy that no parent should ever have to endure. The grief that follows such a loss is often described as the most intense and prolonged form of grief, as the bond between a parent and child is one of the most profound connections a person can experience.
Grief Unpacked: Hard Questions, Candid Answers - Friends & Family
Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences a person can face. The grief that follows can be overwhelming, affecting every aspect of life, including relationships with friends and family.
Exploring Intuitive and Instrumental Grief: Understanding Different Grieving Styles
Grief is a deeply personal and complex experience that affects individuals differently. While there is no right or wrong way to grieve, understanding the various approaches to processing loss can help individuals navigate their own grief journey.
How Long Is Too Long to Grieve?
Grief is a deeply personal experience that knows no timeline. It is a natural response to the loss of a loved one, and it can manifest in various ways, lasting for an indefinite period.
Creating a Memory Book: A Guide to Honoring Loved Ones
Losing a loved one is one of life's most challenging experiences. As we navigate through grief, finding ways to honor and remember those we've lost can be both healing and comforting.
How to Create a Memory Garden or Other Living Memorial
Losing a loved one is one of life's most challenging experiences. As we navigate through grief, finding meaningful ways to honor and remember those we've lost can be both healing and comforting.
Writing a Condolence Letter: Tips and Examples.
When someone we know experiences the loss of a loved one, finding the right words to express our sympathy can be challenging. A heartfelt condolence letter can provide comfort and support during a difficult time.
Suicide Resources in Saskatchewan: What to Do and Who to Contact
Suicide is a devastating reality that affects individuals, families, and communities across Saskatchewan. This blog aims to provide information on what to do and who to contact when dealing with a suicide crisis in Saskatchewan.
Suicide Resources in British Columbia: What to Do and Who to Contact
Suicide is a complex issue that affects individuals, families, and communities across British Columbia. This blog post aims to provide information on what to do and who to contact when seeking support for suicide prevention in British Columbia.
Supporting Bereaved Children: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers
This blog post explores the unique challenges bereaved children face and provides practical strategies for parents and caregivers to help them cope with loss. Learn how to create a safe space for emotions, maintain normalcy, and honor the memory of their loved one.
Finding Solace: Grief Support in Boca Raton
Boca Raton isn't alone in grief. Support groups & resources are available to help you heal after losing a loved one. Find comfort, share experiences, and move forward with compassion.
Navigating Loss: A Guide to What Happens After a Death in Florida
The loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. When faced with a death in Florida, the legalities and logistics can feel overwhelming. We offer a step-by-step guide on what to do after the death of a loved one.
Expressing Sympathy: A Guide to Writing Funeral Card Messages
A funeral card serves as a touching tribute to the deceased and a way to express your condolences to the grieving family. But crafting the right message can feel daunting. What words best convey your emotions and memories?
The Weight of Grief on Financial Choices
In the wake of a major loss, grief can impair our ability to make sound financial decisions when we need it most. Explore the effects grief has on our rationale, focus, and long-term planning.
Coping With Suicide Loss in Alberta: Resources and Support
If you have lost someone close to you through suicide in this Alberta, you don't have to endure this heartbreak alone. There are support services, counselling resources, and compassionate communities available in the province dedicated to providing care and guidance for survivors of suicide loss.
Navigating Life's Final Journey: Preparing for a Loved One's Passing Happening Soon
Realizing you have a finite amount of remaining time with your loved one invokes grief, anxiety and painful questions. This guide outlines steps you can take that allow you to face death's inevitability with of peace and fewer regrets.
The Butterfly's Poignant Significance After Losing a Twin
The butterfly has emerged as a resonant symbol for those grieving the loss of a twin, symbolizing the intense twinship bond of sharing every stage of life together, down to movements and experiences, before going separate ways.
Beyond Opposites: Understanding the Deep Connection Between Grief and Joy
Grief and joy intermingle and intertwine, coexisting in a dance where one emotion blends into the other in many ways. Those who have lost a loved one know this duality well. Learn more about this complex dynamic.
Books and Resources for Parents Who Lost a Child
After the loss of a child, it is crucial for parents to have access to support, guidance, and resources that can help them cope with their grief. In this blog post, we will explore various books and resources available to parents who have lost a child in Canada and the United States.
Coping With Suicide Loss in British Columbia: Resources and Support
While nothing can undo the trauma of losing a loved on to suicide, there are support services, counseling resources, and compassionate communities in British Columbia to help guide and care for survivors after a suicide loss.
The Complicated Reality of Father's Day: Grieving the Lost or Imperfect
For many people, Father's Day dredges up complex emotions that don't quite fit into the Hallmark narrative. Learn more about this complicated reality and how to cope with the mixed feelings toward the holiday.
How Can I Accept Something So Fundamentally Unfair? Grief and Life After Death
The pain, grief, and sense of injustice after the loss of a loved can be overwhelming, leaving you questioning how to accept something that feels so fundamentally unfair. As you navigate this difficult journey, it's essential to understand that your feelings are valid and that healing takes time.
Will I Ever Stop Crying? Coping With Sadness After A Death
One of the most common questions people ask when grieving is, "Will I ever stop crying?" The answer is not straightforward. However, understanding the nature of grief and the healing process can help you navigate this challenging time.
Father's Day Reflections from Those Living Without a Dad
Celebrating Father's Day stirs up a complex mix of emotions for those who have lost or become estranged from their dads. While the holiday offers an opportunity to honor beloved father figures, it can also painfully underscore their absence.
The 20 Best Books to Help You Cope With Grief, Recommended by Experts
Losing a loved one is one of life's greatest challenges. We consulted grief experts and they shared their top 20 book recommendations to help people understand, work through, and find meaning in their grief journey.
Am I Grieving Right? Understanding the Emotions of Grief
Grief is a personal and complex experience that affects everyone differently. Many wonder if they are grieving "correctly" or if there is a right way to grieve. In this post, we explore the emotions of grief and provide guidance on navigating this challenging time.
Grief Brain: Navigating the Fog of Loss
If you find yourself struggling with "grief brain" - a term used to describe the mental fog and confusion that often accompanies loss - know that you are not alone. This post explores the concept of grief brain, its symptoms, and strategies to help you navigate this difficult time.
Why Am I Still So Sad? Understanding Grief and Time
When we lose someone we love, it may feel like the sadness will never end. Many people wonder, "Why am I still so sad?" Time is irrelevant to grief and there is no timeline for healing.
Types of Grief a Care Partner May Encounter
As a care partner, you may find yourself not only grieving the loss of your loved one but also navigating the complexities of your own emotional journey. Understanding different types of grief you may encounter can help you cope with your emotions and find the support you need.
Pathologizing Grief: Navigating the Debate
There is an ongoing debate about whether grief should be considered a pathological condition or a normal part of the human experience. In this blog, we will explore both sides of the debate and provide insights to help individuals navigate their grief journey.
The Tyranny of Positivity: Why Forced Optimism Harms the Grieving
When we experience loss, we encounter a well-meaning but destructive force: the cult of positivity. The constant pressure to "look on the bright side," or "move on" can invalidate our pain, isolate us in our grief, and hinder our healing process. It's time to dismantle this harmful mindset.
Grief Counseling and Grief Therapy: What's the Difference?
Two common forms of support after the loss of loved one are grief counseling and grief therapy. In this post, we explore the differences between grief counseling and grief therapy, and how each can help individuals navigate the complex emotions associated with grief.
Sharing Your Story: Navigating Grief and Finding Healing
Losing a loved one is often a life-altering experience, but you are not alone. Sharing your story and connecting with others who have experienced loss can be a powerful tool in navigating grief and finding healing.
How Does Grief Affect Decision Making?
A state of grief is a poor environment to make clear-headed decision making. Yet, we are inevitably faced with a flood of choices after death that require careful navigation. Learn about the effects of grief on decision-making and how counselling provide support.
Navigating the Uniqueness of Grief: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Grief is not a one-size-fits-all experience. As we grieve, it's vital to recognize there's no "right" way to process loss. Explore introspective questions that illuminate the diverse nature of our grief journeys.
Are There Any Relaxation Techniques That Can Help Me Sleep Better While Grieving?
When we lose a loved one, the emotional turmoil and stress can make it difficult to fall and stay asleep. Here are tips to promote better sleep and support well-being during this difficult time.
Avoid Making Big Decisions After Experiencing a Death
Grief disrupts our cognitive and emotional balance, leading to impulsive decisions. Experts advise patience, support, and delaying major changes to foster healing and avoid regret. Learn more.
Understanding Bereavement Leave in Florida: Navigating Your Options
While Florida doesn't have a state law mandating bereavement leave, there are avenues for employees to take time off to grieve and handle necessary arrangements. Let's break down what Florida offers and strategies to secure the support you need during this difficult time.
When Grief Goes Off Course: Recognizing Yellow and Red Flags in Your Grieving Journey
While there's no "right" way to grieve, sometimes the intensity or duration of our emotional response can signal a need for additional support. Learn about the subtle yellow flags and concerning red flags that may indicate the need for professional intervention.
Navigating Life's Final Chapter - Questions to Ask Yourself After a Terminal Diagnosis
After receiving a terminal diagnosis, a critical step you can take is to reorient yourself is asking introspective questions. Here are some of the most important inquiries to grapple with as you navigate this difficult final journey.
Find Your Path Through Grief: The Role of Grief Counselors
The intensity and duration of grief can feel overwhelming and isolating. Grief counselors provide support, guidance, and tools to help individuals and families navigate the complex journey of grief and find a path towards healing.
Coping With Suicide Loss in Nova Scotia: Resources and Support
Nothing can erase the life-altering impact suicide loss has, but there are organizations, counseling services, and support groups in Nova Scotia that can provide care and guidance as you grieve.
Coping With Suicide Loss in Saskatchewan: Resources and Support
If you have lost someone to suicide in Saskatchewan, you are not alone. There are support services, counseling resources, and community groups available to help you through this incredibly difficult time.
Navigating Loss within Hospital Walls: What to Do After a Loved One Passes Away
When death occurs in a hospital, there's a mix of grief and administrative tasks that must be addressed. This guide aims to offer clarity during a disorienting time, breaking down the steps involved and reminding you of the importance of self-care throughout.
Navigating Loss: Your Guide to Bereavement Leave Rights Across Canada
Canadian labor laws recognize the need for employees to have time away from work to grieve and manage practical matters after the death of a loved one. This guide provides a clear understanding of your rights surrounding bereavement leave across the country.
Coping With Miscarriage at Home - What to Do When the Unimaginable Happens
When a miscarriage occurs unexpectedly at home the physical and emotional tolls can feel utterly overwhelming to manage on your own. But with the right guidance and self-care practices, you can get through one of life's most gut-wrenching experiences in a healthier manner.
Why Words of Comfort Feel So Bad: Understanding the Complexity of Grief and Condolences
In this blog post, we explore why words of comfort from loved ones after experiencing a loss can feel so bad and how to navigate the complexities of grief and condolences.
Grief Support in Alberta: A Curated Resource List
Grief can be overwhelming and isolating. Fortunately, in Alberta, you don't have to navigate grief alone; there are numerous support services available. Learn more about these services in our curated resource list.
Grief Support in British Columbia: A Curated Resource List
Grief can leave you feeling overwhelmed, alone, and adrift. Fortunately, you don't have to walk this journey alone. British Columbia offers a range of grief support services to help you navigate this difficult time.
Grief Support in Saskatchewan: A Curated Resource List
Understanding grief and accessing support can make a significant difference in your healing journey. Resources are available throughout Saskatchewan to help you navigate this difficult time.
Grief Support in Nova Scotia: A Curated Resource List
Grief is an unavoidable, but difficult part of life. Fortunately, you don't have to go through this alone. Nova Scotia offers a variety of resources to help you navigate the complex emotions of grief and find support during difficult times.
Coping With Suicide Loss in Ontario: Resources and Support
You don't have to go through this devastating experience of suicide loss alone in the province. There are resources, counseling services, and support networks across Ontario dedicated to providing care and compassion to survivors of suicide loss.
Friendship in the Shadow of Loss: How Grief Reshapes Our Connections
Some friends step up with unwavering support after a loss, while others may fade away, leaving us feeling isolated. Let's explore how grief transforms our friendships and offers a unique lens for understanding ourselves and those around us.
What to Say When Someone Loses a Loved One to COVID
The COVID-19 pandemic has tragically stolen millions of lives, leaving families shattered by abrupt losses under cruel circumstances. This post provides suggestions on what to say and not say to someone grieving a loved one who died from COVID to respond with empathy and care.
What to Say When Someone Loses a Close Friend
When a friend loses someone they were incredibly close with, the grief can feel profoundly personal. As loved ones, we want to provide comfort but may struggle with finding the right words. This post gives guidance on what to say and avoid when a friend is mourning a friend.
What to Say (and Not Say) When Someone Loses Their Spouse or Partner
The death of a spouse or partner is devastating. As friends and family, we want to provide comfort but struggle with the right words. This post gives suggestions on what to say and avoid when someone loses the love of their life.
What to Say (and Not Say) When Someone Loses Their Mom
As friends or family members, we want to provide comfort and solace, but often struggle to find the right words of condolence. If someone you care about is grieving the loss of their mother, consider these suggestions on what to say and what to avoid.
What to Say to Someone Who Has Experienced a Stillbirth Loss
The loss of a baby through stillbirth is unimaginable. While there's nothing you can say to erase the pain, your words and actions can make a significant difference.This guide offers helpful advice on how to support someone grieving a stillbirth.
Finding Solace in Jupiter, Florida: A Guide to Grief and Bereavement Resources
Navigating grief can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. Explore various support groups, counseling options, and community resources in Jupiter dedicated to helping you through this difficult time.
Suicide Resources in Ontario: What to Do and Who to Contact
Suicide is a complex and devastating issue that affects many people across Ontario. This blog post aims to provide information on what to do and who to contact when dealing with suicide in Ontario.
Suicide Resources in Nova Scotia: What to Do and Who to Contact
Suicide is a complex that affects individuals, families, and communities across Nova Scotia. This blog post aims to provide information on what to do and who to contact when dealing with a suicide crisis in the province.
Suicide Resources in Alberta: What to Do and Who to Contact
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or tendencies, it is crucial to know what to do and who to contact for support. This blog post provides valuable information and resources available in Alberta to help navigate this challenging situation.
Navigating Grief in the Workplace: Bringing Your Whole Self to Work
When we lose a loved one, it can be challenging to navigate the demands of our professional lives while also processing our emotions and adjusting to a new reality. However, bringing our whole selves to work, including our grief, is not only acceptable but can be beneficial for our healing process.
Mental and Physical Manifestations of Grief: How Does Grief Affect the Body?
Grief is a complex and deeply personal experience that can have a profound impact on both the mind and body. In this blog post, we will explore the various mental and physical manifestations of grief and how they can affect the body.
Grief and Suicidality: What You Need to Know
Grief can sometimes lead to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between grief and suicidality, and provide insight into supporting yourself or a loved one during this difficult time.
What to Do Immediately When an Employee Has a Death in the Family
As an employer, it's crucial to understand the impact of grief on your employees and provide the necessary bereavement support. This blog discusses steps employers should take immediately when an employee has a death in the family.
How Grief Can Impact Your Sleep
The grief from losing a loved one can be all-consuming, affecting every aspect of your life, including your sleep. This article explores the connection between grief and sleep, and provides tips for improving sleep during this difficult time.
10 Ways to Support Someone Grieving at No Cost
When someone you care about is grieving, it can be challenging to know how to support them. Here are ten ways to support someone grieving that won't cost you a dime.
How to Support a Friend with a Dying Parent
Watching a friend go through the painful experience of losing a parent can be heartbreaking. While there is no perfect way to navigate this situation, there are several ways you can show your friend that you care and are there for them as they face this challenging journey.
Making the Home Safe for an Aging Parent After a Hospital Stay
Caring for an aging parent after returning home from a hospital stay can be challenging. This article discusses ways to make your parent's home safe and accessible, allowing them to maintain their independence while minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.
How to Respond to Unsolicited Advice About Your Grief
When mourning a loss, it can be challenging to navigate the well-meaning but sometimes misguided advice from friends, family, and strangers. In this post, we discuss strategies for responding to unsolicited advice and maintaining healthy boundaries during the grieving process.
When Words From Your Friends Seem Okay, But They Still Make You Angry: Navigating the Complexities of Grief
Sometimes the words our friends use in an attempt to console us can end up making us feel angry or misunderstood. In this blog post, we explore why certain phrases can trigger negative emotions and discuss how to respond when you find yourself in this situation.
Grief and Men: Understanding the Unspoken Struggle
Society often expects men to be strong in the face of loss, leaving little room for the emotions that come with grief. This expectation can lead to a sense of loneliness and disconnection, as men navigate grief without the support and understanding they desperately need.
Easy Eating When You're Grieving (That's Not Fast Food)
When you're grieving, it can be hard to find the energy or motivation to prepare healthy meals. However, taking care of your body is crucial for physical and emotional well-being. In this post, we explore some easy eating options that can help you nourish yourself during the grieving process.
Asking the Right Questions: A Guide to Capturing Your Parents' Life Stories
As our parent grow older, we often wish we had taken more time to truly listen to the stories of their lives. If you still have your parents around, make the most of this precious time by asking them meaningful questions that will help preserve their life stories for future generations.
Navigating Mother’s Day: Reflections from those living without moms
Read insights and words of wisdom from other people living without a mom, and how the manage and cope during mother's day.
Navigating Grief in Non-Death Situations: Understanding and Coping with Loss
While the death of a loved one is a well-recognized trigger for grief, other life events can also cause feelings of sadness, anger, and despair. These non-death-related losses can be just as significant and impactful as those associated with death.
What To Do With an Urn After Scattering Ashes
What do you do with a beautiful cremation urn after a funeral is over and the ashes are scattered? There are many ways to reuse it or repurpose it. Here are a few ideas.
Understanding the 7 Stages of Death Grief | Healing After Loss
In order to navigate the Death Grief process, it's crucial to have an understanding of the 7 stages and the healing that can come after such a loss.
Finding Light After Loss: The Grief Recovery Method Explored
There's a quiet pain many of us carry, tucked away behind forced smiles and "I'm fine" reassurances - it's the pain of loss. No one quite knew what to say or do, so I just carried on as best I could.
The Power of Ritual When Grieving
Cultural Mythologist, End of Life Doula, and Life Cycle Celebrant Megan Sheldon teaches us how to create rituals while processing grief.
Can AI Help Us Get More Comfortable With Death and Grief?
Eirene's AI-powered writing assistants can help you write an obituary for a loved one who has died or condolences for a friend or colleague.
Guide to Funeral Flower Arrangements
Learn about flower arrangements for a funeral. We explain symbolism, colour, etiquette, and selecting the right blooms.
Condolences to Use When Someone's Father or Mother Dies
Learn what to say when a friend, coworker, or relative has lost their father or mother. In this guide, there are examples of condolences you can give to help you provide comfort and support after the death of a person's parent.
Navigating Widowhood with Jody LaVoie
In this blog, we speak to Life Coach Jody LaVoie about navigating grief and widowhood, after losing a spouse.
What to Say in a Funeral Thank You Note
Learn how to compose a thank you letter to send to people who supported you when and after a loved one died, including funeral attendees. Examples are provided.
Funeral Etiquette: An Attendee's Guide to End-of-Life Events
This funeral etiquette guide will help you understand what behavior and conduct are acceptable and expected of attendees at end of life events.
7 Modern Grief Resources to Help You Cope With Loss
10 modern resources to help you through grief and managing the feelings that accompany loss.
What to Say When Someone Dies: Words to Say to a Grieving Person at Funeral
Learn what to say when someone dies so that it is comforting to the family or friends of the deceased person. Tips also include what not to say and what to say at a funeral to to someone who is grieving.
Recognizing the Signs and Stages of Dying with Linda Hochstetler
To obtain a better understanding of the signs and stages of dying, we interviewed Linda Hochstetler author of 21 Days to Die: The Canadian Guide to End-of-Life
Using Your Grief to Define You? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t
After experiencing loss, it is easy to let your grief define you. Here are some reasons why you shouldn't
How Will Grief Play a Role in My Dating Life?
This blog discusses how to navigate dating and relationships with grief.
Navigating Anniversaries After a Loss
Learn about how loss impacts how we celebrate or don't celebrate anniversaries
Grief Support in Ontario, a Curated Resource List by Eirene.ca
Grief support in Ontario is widely available. This page contains an extensive list of resources available to Ontarians.
Giving Grief a Voice: How Journaling Helped Me Process Grief
How writing can help manage grief after experiencing a loss.
Types of Grief: The Many Variations of Emotional Response to Loss
Grief is a complex emotional response to loss. It can manifest in many different ways. Here's a breakdown of the different types of grief.
Three Ways Anxiety Can Strike After a Loss
Many people experience heightened anxiety after a loss. Here is our advice on how to help manage death-related anxiety.
Caregivers Need Care Too: How To Look After Yourself
In Canada there is a significant portion of the population who are caregivers, providing “roughly 75 percent of all patient care in Canada.
True or False: Navigating Spirituality and Religion in the Face of Death
When faced with death, whether it’s the loss of a loved one or coming to terms with your own mortality, odds are the topics of religion and spirituality will come into play – even for the non-religious.
The Cost of Being a Caregiver: Seen and Unseen Costs of Caring for Loved Ones
How caring for your loved ones can sometimes come with unforeseen emotional, mental, and financial costs.
What to Say to Someone Who’s Lost a Loved One
Knowing what to say to someone to comfort them after a loss can be challenging, that's why we asked what you should and shouldn't say.
When You’re Grief-Adjacent: How to Support A Friend Through the Death of a Loved One
While there are of course no “rules” and what works for one griver might not suit the next, there are a few considerations we’ve found to be particularly helpful and relevant when supporting a friend through the death of a loved one.
Resources and Tips on How To Talk To Kids About Death
Children will likely ask many questions and sometimes the same questions over and over again. It’s best to answer honestly, giving information in a way that is appropriate for the age of the child.
How to Deal with Grief at Work after a Loss
Returning to work after the loss of a loved one can be one of the most difficult parts of the grieving process.
The Weight of our Worth: Measuring the Merits of a Life after Loss
In this blog, we discuss how oftentimes we stigmatize death when it is caused by drugs or alcohol.
8 Questions Children May Ask About Death and Dying (And How to Answer)
Tips and tricks when answering the questions that may come up and we also wanted to provide you with an overview of some questions you may hear from a child.
‘I Still Feel Guilty’ - Here’s How (and Why) Grief Can Harbour Guilt
As it turns out, grief and guilt go hand-in-hand almost as much as grief and sadness.
How To Be With Our Own Grief
We want grief to follow a timeline, which is basically the opposite of what it actually does. The more we understand this and alter our beliefs and expectations about grief, the more we can move through our own unique healing process.
The Role that Counselling Plays in the Grief Journey
In this latest instalment, we speak with Claire Molloy and Philip Robbins of Therapy Alliance to discuss the role that counselling plays in the grief journey.
Grieving the Death of a Beloved Pet: Why We Should Take Pet Loss Seriously
The grief felt for a pet's death can be just as strong and painful as the grief felt for the death of a significant person in our lives.
How to Set Boundaries When You’re Grieving (for yourself and for your friends)
How to Set Boundaries When You’re Grieving (for yourself and for your friends)
The Impact of Practicing Dying Every Day: A Healthy Exercise
The truth is, there are so few things in life that are guaranteed as death. It is inevitable, and as much as we would like to ignore it, it won’t just disappear. That’s why practicing dying can help.
Overcoming Death Denial with Loved Ones: How To Talk About Death
We currently live in a society that denies death, meaning we do not like to think about, talk about or acknowledge death and dying in any significant way. How do you navigate this space with loved ones? Our blog can help you manage this.
What it’s Like to Lose a Parent in Your Early 20s
We are never really prepared for what life brings us, especially when it comes to death, but what if we simply had more conversations around the end of life?
Cleaning Out Your Emotional Attic Before You Die: Secrets and Reconciliations
Cleaning your emotional closet is the act of reconciling any loose ends that may be unravelled upon your death.
How Death & Dinner Go Together: Talking About Death Means Talking About Life
What is Death over Dinner and how can it help you come to terms with your end of life? Our blog shares how - and teaches you how you can host your own death over dinner event.
Let’s Talk About Death & Dying, Baby - What is the Positive Death Movement?
At the core of the positive death movement is the commitment to put the person back into the centre of the experience.
How Funerals and Grief are Changing During a Pandemic
As many are faced with what to do when we can’t gather, not only are mourners dealing with death, but also not being able to access what’s needed most: human touch, connection, and community support.
3 Ways to Deal with the Impending Loss of a Loved One
Death from something as profound and long-lasting as a terminal illness can be a slow process: something gradual, which in itself is harrowing. All we can do is prepare until the time comes and say goodbye for the final time.
How Art Therapy Helps Process Grief, Loss and Manage Symptoms
There are numerous forms of therapy to help you move forward from grief and loss, and art therapy is one of them.
How Teachers Can Talk to Children About Death and Grief
If you're a teacher, it's important to learn how to talk to your students about death and grief. This guide will help you understand the best ways to support grieving students and their families.
What is an Ethical Will and How Do I Write One?
An Ethical Will is a document that you write for your loved ones containing the wisdom you have gathered throughout your life for after you die. Here is everything you need to know about them.
Family Heirlooms: Let Them Go or Cherish as a Treasured Keepsake?
Here is a great guide to managing family heirlooms when a loved one passes away.
What is the Pan-Death Movement? The 7 Stages of a Pan-Death Process
Pan-death has been renamed DWENA which stands for Deathcare, Wholistic, Ecological and/or Natural Alternatives. Here's everything you need to know.
Heather Taylor's Journey to Bring Peace and Assistance to Those Grieving
In this latest edition, we chat with Nurse Entrepreneur, Heather Taylor, the CEO of After A Loss, an organization that provides practical grief assistance to individuals and their families. Join us as we chat with Heather about her work in the space.
Managing the Grief Process: A Deep Dive into Sudden Temporary Upsurge of Grief
Everyone’s grieving process is different, and truthfully, the concept of “closure” isn’t applicable at all when it comes to loss. Grief is a complex, ever-evolving emotion and while we may manage our emotions as time goes on, moments that bring on a STUG are absolutely normal.
How to Say Goodbye to a Senior Loved One and Prepare for Goodbye
End of life discussions are not easy. As challenging as it may be to have these conversations with your loved ones, no matter where they are in their life, it will be worth it to help them find peace at the end of their life, as well as help you manage the loss once they have passed.
The Unique Experience of Twins Dealing with Grief: Survivor's Guilt and Support Groups
In this edition of, Intimate Conversations on Death, we spend time chatting with Beverley Smyk of The Twinless Twins Support Group International, to learn about new perspectives and offer new ways of navigating and discussing death.
Why Linda Hochstetler Brought Death Cafes to Toronto
In this edition of, Intimate Conversations on Death, we spend time chatting with Linda Hochstetler, to learn about new perspectives and offer new ways of navigating and discussing death.
What is Grief? Demystifying Common Myths Associated with Coping with Loss
There is no “one size fits all” way to cope with loss. In this blog, we debunk some of the most common myths that are associated with grief. Read on to learn more about this complex experience.
Expressing Love and Comfort to a Dying Loved One: How to Have Meaningful Discussions
When discussing the end of life with your loved one, try and focus on their specific needs. Each person needs different considerations and will be comforted by different things. Here are tips on things you can say.
Debunking the Stages of Grief: Why the Five Stages of Grief Don't Exist
Grief is a complex creature and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all way to manage or get through it. Grief is a natural and universal process. Far from being negative, grieving is the way we heal. It takes time and effort. Learn more about grief here.
8 Ways to Process Grief During the Pandemic: A Helpful Guide to Taking Care of Yourself through COVID-19
For better or for worse, the last three months have put life in perspective, and we at Eirene are here to help you manage and prepare for the new, extra complexity that now comes from a world stricken by COVID-19.
What to Say to a Grieving Friend (when you don’t know what to say)
Here are some ways you can be supportive or present for those in your life who are in the midst of their grieving process or have just experienced a loss.