Resources
Loss & Grief Information
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Grief & Bereavement
Click below to view the full range of brochures, all available as free downloads (pdf format).
Brochures
Anticipatory grief, also referred to as anticipatory loss or preparatory grief, is the distress a person may feel in the days, months or even years before the death of a loved one or other impending loss.
Grief reactions associated with sudden or unexpected death.
Video & Audio
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Online Resources
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Good Grief develops and supports a range of evidence-based loss and grief education programs that help children, young people and adults to understand their experience and attend well to their grief following major loss experiences.
The Bereavement C.A.R.E. Centre was established in 1981, providing comprehensive and accessible counselling and support services for the terminally ill and their families, and for those recently bereaved (i.e. approximately the first two years after the death of someone with whom they have a significant relationship).
GriefLink provides information for people who are dealing with the grief caused by the death of someone close to them, and for those who are supporting them.
NNAAMI is a group of people who have experienced life with a mentally ill parent, established to provide assistance for one another, via self - help support, discussion groups and counselling.
Time to Share is shining a light on what it’s really like to care for a loved one who’s dying. It’s a place where carers tell us the highs and lows of their experience as well as exchange information and advice.
An information booklet for professionals and volunteers working in health care, with a focus on aged and palliative care.
Author: Anna Bloemhard, BSocSc(Hon), MA Spiritual Care Project Officer, Mid North Coast Division of General Practice.
An insightful blog post from Dianne McKissock OAM of The National Centre for Childhood Grief (NCCG) on preventing screen addiction in grieving young people and minimising harm from current use.
An information booklet for professionals and volunteers working in health care with a focus on aged and palliative care by Anna Bloemhard, BSocSc(Hon), MA Spiritual Care Project Officer, Mid North Coast Division of General Practice.
A helpful resource by ReachOut - Australia’s leading online mental health organisation for young people and their parents.
NALAG Blog Articles
Witnessing a traumatic event can have a profound and lasting impact on an individual's emotional well-being. Whether it's a natural disaster, accident, act of violence, or any other distressing incident, the grief experienced by witnesses often goes unrecognized. In this blog, we will delve into the hidden aspects of grief associated with witnessing a traumatic event and discuss strategies for coping and healing.
1. The Unseen Grief:
While the focus is often on the direct victims of a traumatic event, witnesses also bear an immense emotional burden. Witnessing a distressing incident can lead to feelings of helplessness, guilt, fear, and profound sadness. Acknowledging and understanding this unseen grief is the first step towards healing.
2. Allow Yourself to Feel:
It is essential to give yourself permission to feel the full range of emotions that arise from witnessing a traumatic event. Suppressing or denying these emotions can have long-term negative effects on your mental and emotional well-being. Embrace the grieving process and be compassionate with yourself as you navigate through the stages of grief.
3. Express Your Emotions:
Finding healthy outlets to express your emotions can be profoundly healing. Engage in activities such as journaling, art therapy, or participating in support groups where you can openly share your feelings and experiences. Verbalizing or creatively expressing your emotions can help process and release the grief associated with witnessing a traumatic event.
4. Practice Self-Care:
Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is crucial during this challenging time. Engage in self-care activities that promote relaxation, such as practicing mindfulness, exercising, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet. Prioritize activities that bring you joy and promote a sense of calm and inner peace.
5. Reaching out for Help:
If the grief associated with witnessing a traumatic event becomes overwhelming and begins to interfere with your daily life, seeking professional help is essential. mental health professional can guide you through the healing process, provide coping strategies, and address any underlying trauma or emotional distress.
8. Give Yourself Time:
Healing from the grief associated with witnessing a traumatic event is a journey that takes time. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that healing is a gradual process. Allow yourself the necessary time and space to heal and recover, respecting your own unique timeline.
6. Seek Support:
Don't hesitate to reach out for support from trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals. Sharing your experience with others who understand the emotional impact of witnessing trauma can provide validation, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
Reach out to NALAG for support and helpful resources on 6882 9222.
Witnessing a traumatic event can leave an indelible mark on an individual's emotional well-being. By acknowledging the grief associated with witnessing trauma, seeking support, expressing emotions, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help when needed, it is possible to navigate the healing process. Remember, you are not alone in your grief, and there is hope for healing and finding a renewed sense of peace and resilience.
In the face of loss and grief children often find themselves grappling with emotions that they may struggle to comprehend or express. As caring adults, it is our responsibility to provide them with the support and guidance they need to navigate the challenging journey of grief. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies and practical tips to help children process their grief in a healthy and healing manner.
1. Open and Honest Communication:
When it comes to discussing grief with children, open and honest communication in an age appropriate way is the key. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing their emotions without judgment or fear. Encourage them to ask questions and be prepared to answer them in an age-appropriate manner. Remember, it's okay to admit if you don't have all the answers – sometimes simply being there to listen is enough.
2. Validate Their Feelings:
Grief can elicit a wide range of emotions in children, such as sadness, anger, confusion, and even guilt. It is crucial to validate their feelings and let them know that it is normal to experience such emotions during this challenging time. Assure them that their feelings are valid and that they are not alone in their pain.
3. Maintain Routines and Stability:
Children thrive on routines and stability, especially during times of grief. Keeping their daily routines as consistent as possible can offer a sense of security and normalcy amidst the chaos. However, be flexible and understanding if they need occasional breaks or adjustments during particularly difficult moments.
4. Encourage Healthy Expression:
Children may express their grief in various ways, such as through play, art, or storytelling. Encourage them to find healthy outlets for their emotions, allowing them to express themselves in ways that feel natural to them. Engaging in activities like drawing, writing, or even playing with puppets can help them process their emotions and find comfort in self-expression.
5. Be a Role Model:
Children often learn by observing the behavior of those around them. As an adult, you play a vital role in guiding them through their grief. Show them healthy coping mechanisms by taking care of your own emotional well-being. This might involve seeking support from friends, family, or NALAG and engaging in self-care activities that promote healing.
6. Memorialise and Honour Loved Ones:
Encouraging children to memorialise and honour their loved ones can provide a sense of closure and help foster positive memories. This can be done through activities such as creating memory boxes, planting a tree or flowers in their memory, or even organising a small ceremony or gathering to share stories and celebrate the life of the person they lost. See the printable Remembrance Tree craft activity above.
Supporting children through grief requires a delicate balance of empathy, patience, and understanding. By creating a nurturing environment where their emotions are acknowledged and validated, we can help children navigate the complexities of grief and learn to heal and grow from their experiences. Remember, every child grieves differently, so adapt your approach to suit their unique needs, and above all, be a source of unwavering love and support.
Each year, the 11th of September stands as a sombre reminder of the devastating terrorist attacks that forever changed our world. You, as I, remember exactly where you were when you heard or saw this terror unfolding on your TV or news outlet 22 years ago.
I was in Taree establishing a branch of NALAG.
Today is the anniversary of this tragic event - I can recall that NALAG received many calls in the aftermath from people trying to find ways to honour the lives lost, while also finding healthy ways to express their own grief.
In this blog, we'll take a deeper look into the importance of remembering 9/11, explore the various emotions that arise during this time, and provide suggestions for expressing our grief in meaningful and healing ways.
1. Reflecting on the Impact:
Although this event took place 22 years ago, it could still feel like yesterday for the many Australians that were affected, acknowledging the profound impact it had on individuals, families, communities, and nations. Take a moment to reflect on the lives lost, the acts of heroism witnessed, and the collective trauma experienced. Recognise the significance of this day and its enduring effects on our society.
2. Embracing Our Emotions:
Grief is a complex emotion that manifests differently for each person. During this time, it is natural to experience a range of emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, or even confusion. Allow yourself to feel these emotions and understand that they are valid responses to such a colossal tragedy. Give yourself permission to grieve in your own way and at your own pace.
3. Creating a Personal Memorial:
Light a candle, place flowers, or display photographs of those who were lost.
4. Seeking Support:
Remember, you are not alone in your grief. Reach out to family, friends, or professional counsellors who can provide support.
NALAG's grief support service is always available.
As we remember the tragic events of 9/11, it is essential for those still effected to find healthy ways to express their grief. By reflecting on the impact, embracing their emotions, creating personal memorials sharing stories and memories, and seeking support, we honour the lives lost while finding healing and connection. Let us remember 9/11 with empathy, resilience, and a commitment to fostering a world of peace and understanding.
It’s that time of year again when the energy in the community is in a celebratory mode. However, for those of us that have experienced a loss we may struggle with the whole thought of the holiday season and all that goes with it.
We may dread the thought of trying to cope when loss is still raw or grief is triggered by the reminders of our loss.
Particularly if we have experienced the death of a loved one in recent years, the impact of the pandemic has made itself felt. We have experienced that extra layer of restrictions excluding us from our usual support systems of physical contact and human touch with family and friends, along with minimisation of funerals and the usual systems that would support us through our grief.
The experience of grief is so individual and the roller coaster of emotions unique to each person over time. Navigating Christmas and the holiday season can be exhausting both physically and emotionally … go gently!
We may be left with a sense of dread in the face of the celebrations and joyous greetings of all around us, wanting simply to run away or avoid the ‘holiday joy’ when a vacant space in our heart is prominent in our being.
There is a way through this … trust yourself as to what you need and NALAG may be able to assist you in recognising the continuing bonds that can support you through this year and future years as well.
Supporting Children and Young People
Christmas and the holiday season can be an extremely difficult time for children, young people and families especially when a parent, sibling or other significant person has died, or because other circumstances prevent that special person being with them.
Coping with grief around Christmas and the holiday season can be tough for everyone and the feelings of loss and grief can be especially hard during this time. NALAG’s recommendation is to prepare for this difficult time, and plan ahead.
Top Ten Tips for Coping with Grief During the Holiday Season
1. Talk together as a family; discuss how they feel and ask what they want to do.
2. Take time for them to remember their loved one who has died or who will not be with them.
3. Light a candle in memory of your loss.
4. Making a special remembrance symbol, placing the person’s name and a message on it.
5. Place a photo of the person in a quiet space in your home or a special item like their favourite hat.
6. Visit the cemetery or special place of remembrance and write a message on a card or place flowers at the site.
7. Let your children know that it is still ok to laugh and have fun during this time.
8. Have an escape plan for events and activities that may be triggering.
9. Volunteer or donate to a charity in memory of your loved one.
10. Remember, support is always available. For 24/7 crisis support during the holiday season, call
Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
Pregnancy & Infant Loss
Click below to view the full range of brochures, all available as free downloads (pdf format).
Brochures
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Online Resources
Through Service NSW, you can commemorate an early pregnancy loss with a Recognition of Early Pregnancy Loss certificate. This is not a legal document, but can be used to memorialise a loss that occurred before 20 weeks, or if weeks are unknown, a baby that weighed less than 400 grams.
Bears Of Hope Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support provides leading support and exceptional care for families who experience the loss of their baby.
Supporting parents on the journey from pregnancy to preschool. Speak to a maternal child health nurse for personal advice and guidance and discover all about pregnancy, birth, being a parent and raising a child.
Sands provides support, information and education to anyone affected by the death of a baby before, during or shortly after birth.
Provides resources for parents and families impacted by stillbirth.
Despite medical and scientific advances, the rate of stillborn babies is not declining nor well understood - a situation that urgently needs to be adressed. The Stillbirth Foundation Australia provides an opportunity for the community to support research and education into this devastating condition, while offering stillparents, their families and friends a way to connect with each other.
Registering your baby's birth and receiving a birth certificate will usually depend on the baby's age of gestation when they were born. This will affect practical things relating to funeral arrangements.
NALAG Blog Articles
The journey of parenthood is often filled with immense joy and anticipation. However, sadly, not all stories have fairy-tale endings. Baby loss is a heartbreaking experience that affects countless families around the world. It is an emotional topic that requires empathy, understanding, and support. In this blog, NALAG aims to shed light on the subject, providing comfort, guidance, and resources for those who have endured the pain of baby loss in th lead up to International Infant and Pregnancy Loss Day on 15th October 2023.
1. Acknowledging Grief:
Losing a baby can be an incredibly isolating experience, as society often struggles to address this sensitive topic. It is important to acknowledge and validate the grief experienced by parents who have lost a child, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death. Grief is a unique journey, and allowing oneself to process emotions without judgment or time constraints is crucial.
2. Finding Support:
Coping with baby loss can be overwhelming, but no one should have to face it alone. Seeking support from loved ones, friends, or support groups can provide solace and a safe space to share emotions. NALAG offers free bereavement support through support volunteers and bereavement counsellors, they are there to offer valuable guidance during this difficult time.
3. Honouring the Memory:
Creating ways to honour and remember the baby who was lost is an essential step in the healing process. NALAG in Dubbo has a very special way of honouring the babies in our Memorial Garden where specially engraved stones remembering those little lives lost to soon are placed during our annual remembering the Babies Ceremony. NALAG unfortunately will not be able to have our usual ceremony this year. You are invited to visit our centre in Welshman street and do your own remembering ritual, alternatively families may find comfort in rituals such as planting a tree, releasing balloons, or lighting a candle on this special occasions. Additionally, memorializing the baby with keepsakes, such as personalized jewelry, photo albums, or artwork, can provide a tangible symbol of their presence and impact on their family's lives.
4. Self-Care and Healing:
In the midst of grief, taking care of oneself often takes a backseat. Practicing self-care becomes particularly important when coping with baby loss. Engaging in activities that bring solace, such as journaling, exercising, or joining support groups, can help in the healing process. It is also vital to give oneself permission to grieve, allowing emotions to surface without guilt or judgment.
6. Seeking Professional Help:
Sometimes, the pain of baby loss can become overwhelming, leading to prolonged periods of despair or depression NALAG provides a safe space to explore emotions and develop effective coping strategies. Remember, reaching out for support and assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Conclusion:
The journey of baby loss is one of immense sorrow, but it is essential to remember that hope and healing can coexist. Understanding the grieving process, seeking support, and honouing the baby's memory are vital steps towards finding solace. Together, as a compassionate society, we can create an environment that supports those affected by baby loss and helps them navigate their path to healing. Remember, you are not alone; countless others have walked this path, and there is support available to help you through this difficult time.
Support is Available
If you or someone you know is grieving please reach out to the NALAG Centre for Loss & Grief. We provide FREE grief support either face to face where available or over the phone. You don't have to do it alone.
Phone: 02 6882 9222
Email: info@nalag.org.au
Trauma
Click below to view the full range of brochures, all available as free downloads (pdf format).
Brochures
Any sudden event that causes a person intense emotion can be classified as trauma. Most forms of trauma are unexpected and the person is rarely prepared for the event. Traumatic events can include any form of accident; a hold up, a sudden and unexpected loss or dealing directly with an unpleasant event.
Online Resources
Trauma Centre Australia offers a wide range of counselling services that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week including: Critical incident Response, trauma and grief counselling, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), dispute resolution and mediation, and drink driver education programs, assessments, and interlock removal reports.
Trauma Centre Australia offers a wide range of counselling services that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week including: Critical incident Response, trauma and grief counselling, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), dispute resolution and mediation, and drink driver education programs, assessments, and interlock removal reports.
APS is the leading association for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 24,000 members. APS advocates for the profession of psychology, supports high standards, promotes community wellbeing, and are dedicated to providing benefits to support members.
Victims Services is a NSW government agency, providing support to victims of crime, and families and friends of missing people (our clients), ensuring compliance with the NSW Charter of Victims Rights and improving the Justice response and experience for our clients.
NALAG Blog Articles
Witnessing a traumatic event can have a profound and lasting impact on an individual's emotional well-being. Whether it's a natural disaster, accident, act of violence, or any other distressing incident, the grief experienced by witnesses often goes unrecognized. In this blog, we will delve into the hidden aspects of grief associated with witnessing a traumatic event and discuss strategies for coping and healing.
1. The Unseen Grief:
While the focus is often on the direct victims of a traumatic event, witnesses also bear an immense emotional burden. Witnessing a distressing incident can lead to feelings of helplessness, guilt, fear, and profound sadness. Acknowledging and understanding this unseen grief is the first step towards healing.
2. Allow Yourself to Feel:
It is essential to give yourself permission to feel the full range of emotions that arise from witnessing a traumatic event. Suppressing or denying these emotions can have long-term negative effects on your mental and emotional well-being. Embrace the grieving process and be compassionate with yourself as you navigate through the stages of grief.
3. Express Your Emotions:
Finding healthy outlets to express your emotions can be profoundly healing. Engage in activities such as journaling, art therapy, or participating in support groups where you can openly share your feelings and experiences. Verbalizing or creatively expressing your emotions can help process and release the grief associated with witnessing a traumatic event.
4. Practice Self-Care:
Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is crucial during this challenging time. Engage in self-care activities that promote relaxation, such as practicing mindfulness, exercising, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet. Prioritize activities that bring you joy and promote a sense of calm and inner peace.
5. Reaching out for Help:
If the grief associated with witnessing a traumatic event becomes overwhelming and begins to interfere with your daily life, seeking professional help is essential. mental health professional can guide you through the healing process, provide coping strategies, and address any underlying trauma or emotional distress.
8. Give Yourself Time:
Healing from the grief associated with witnessing a traumatic event is a journey that takes time. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that healing is a gradual process. Allow yourself the necessary time and space to heal and recover, respecting your own unique timeline.
6. Seek Support:
Don't hesitate to reach out for support from trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals. Sharing your experience with others who understand the emotional impact of witnessing trauma can provide validation, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
Reach out to NALAG for support and helpful resources on 6882 9222.
Witnessing a traumatic event can leave an indelible mark on an individual's emotional well-being. By acknowledging the grief associated with witnessing trauma, seeking support, expressing emotions, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help when needed, it is possible to navigate the healing process. Remember, you are not alone in your grief, and there is hope for healing and finding a renewed sense of peace and resilience.
Mental Health
Click below to view the full range of brochures, all available as free downloads (pdf format).
Brochures
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Toolkits
myCompass is free online, interactive self-help program developed the Black Dog Institute to address mild to-moderate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression through personalised treatments delivered entirely online.
Online Resources
An up-to-date directory of Australian mental health services and resources funded by the Australian Government.
Blue Healers is a two-day program which provides coping skills and management strategies for people experiencing mild to moderate depression, anxiety and stress. This is a group program developed and presented by the NALAG's trained facilitators, giving participants direct access to handy tools and resources.
R U OK? Day is all about having a meaningful conversation with the people you care about to see how they are coping, whether they have experienced recent hardship or not. But often it feels daunting asking someone if they’re really OK, because you may not be sure how to respond if the answer is ‘No’. So, we’ve put together a few tips and resources to help you the next time you ask “R U OK?” Remember, help is always available.
Blue Healers is a two-day program which provides coping skills and management strategies for people experiencing mild to moderate depression, anxiety and stress. This is a group program developed and presented by the NALAG's trained facilitators, giving participants direct access to handy tools and resources.
Beyond Blue provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live.
The Mental Health Coordinating Council (MHCC) is the peak body for community managed mental health organisations in New South Wales. Their website contains a number of useful mental health resources and information on training opportunities.
DepressionAdvice.com.au provides information and resources on depression, alcohol and drug abuse mental health issues, obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder, aimed at doctors, patients and the general public.
The Rural Adversity Mental Health Program educates, encourages and links people living in regional, rural and remote NSW to mental health support.
Suicide Prevention Australia has a team of dedicated professionals working to achieve their vision of a world without suicide.
The American Association of Suicidology promotes the understanding and prevention of suicide and support those who have been affected by it.
Young People
Click below to view the full range of brochures, all available as free downloads (pdf format).
Brochures
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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Quizzes & More
This online quiz has been designed by RAHMP and Reachout Australia to help youth track exactly how they’re feeling and provide steps to take if additional advice or support is needed.
A series of online storybooks, games and info by Children's Health Queensland to help support and heal yougn minds during and after natural disasters.
download and share our 2023 Grief Awareness Month graphics and resources.
Online Resources
Children often hear about what’s going on in the world through news reports, social media, friends, or adults’ conversations. Sometimes the news is cheerful and uplifting, but other times, children may worry about current events like the Ukraine War, Lismore floods, or the recent school shooting in Texas. As adults, we can help them make sense of what’s happening.
Seasons for Growth offers children and young people a safe space to come together, and share their experiences of change and loss.
The Kids Helpline is a free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young Australians aged 5 to 25.
The Kids Helpline is a free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young Australians aged 5 to 25.
The Kids Helpline is a free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young Australians aged 5 to 25.
The Kids Helpline is a free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young Australians aged 5 to 25.
15 handy tips for parents.
NALAG Blog Articles
1. Is there is a “right” way to grieve?
There is no right way to grieve – nor a wrong way. There is only YOUR way. Everybody’s grief experience is unique, as a reflection of the relationship that we had with the person who has died. What we do know is that through the healing process of grief, our pain of the loss can be acknowledged and felt, so that acceptance of our changed world can start to emerge.
2. If a person is suddenly feeling happier, does that mean their grief is over?
I don’t think that our grief is ever over. In time, we remember with less pain as we grow around our grief and redirect energy into our changed life. Grief will ebb and flow throughout our life. There will still be times that the grief is activated, where we are very much connected to our sorrow or memories of happiness together through anniversary or celebration, a sensory experience. We can experience moments of happiness even in the early stages of loss, and I urge clients to embrace these moments. Our life story continues beyond the loss.
3. Is it rude to ask a friend about their grief?
No – It’s OK to ask - but if they are in acute grief they may not be able to respond just yet to put words around their deep sorrow or feelings. Just step in to help – be specific about what tasks are needed to be done rather than a general offer of assistance. Be there to acknowledge and witness their pain without anxiety around their suffering. Avoid unhelpful cliches (such as “be strong”, “it gets easier in time”, “he’s gone to a better place”) and observe the silences, have empathy, listen. Don’t avoid your friends who are grieving – they need you - and invite conversation about their loved ones.
4. Does grief only occur from a certain age?
We all grieve – even babies that can’t understand the concept of death can experience loss of the absence of someone. David Kessler, an American grief researcher and educator, writes that if children are old enough to love they are old enough to grieve. However children don’t grieve the same way adults do. They don’t openly talk about how they are feeling. They can oscillate between intense feelings and play. They need honesty, support, positive modelling of coping, and routine. Their questions need to be invited and answered and their feelings validated.
In the face of loss and grief children often find themselves grappling with emotions that they may struggle to comprehend or express. As caring adults, it is our responsibility to provide them with the support and guidance they need to navigate the challenging journey of grief. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies and practical tips to help children process their grief in a healthy and healing manner.
1. Open and Honest Communication:
When it comes to discussing grief with children, open and honest communication in an age appropriate way is the key. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing their emotions without judgment or fear. Encourage them to ask questions and be prepared to answer them in an age-appropriate manner. Remember, it's okay to admit if you don't have all the answers – sometimes simply being there to listen is enough.
2. Validate Their Feelings:
Grief can elicit a wide range of emotions in children, such as sadness, anger, confusion, and even guilt. It is crucial to validate their feelings and let them know that it is normal to experience such emotions during this challenging time. Assure them that their feelings are valid and that they are not alone in their pain.
3. Maintain Routines and Stability:
Children thrive on routines and stability, especially during times of grief. Keeping their daily routines as consistent as possible can offer a sense of security and normalcy amidst the chaos. However, be flexible and understanding if they need occasional breaks or adjustments during particularly difficult moments.
4. Encourage Healthy Expression:
Children may express their grief in various ways, such as through play, art, or storytelling. Encourage them to find healthy outlets for their emotions, allowing them to express themselves in ways that feel natural to them. Engaging in activities like drawing, writing, or even playing with puppets can help them process their emotions and find comfort in self-expression.
5. Be a Role Model:
Children often learn by observing the behavior of those around them. As an adult, you play a vital role in guiding them through their grief. Show them healthy coping mechanisms by taking care of your own emotional well-being. This might involve seeking support from friends, family, or NALAG and engaging in self-care activities that promote healing.
6. Memorialise and Honour Loved Ones:
Encouraging children to memorialise and honour their loved ones can provide a sense of closure and help foster positive memories. This can be done through activities such as creating memory boxes, planting a tree or flowers in their memory, or even organising a small ceremony or gathering to share stories and celebrate the life of the person they lost. See the printable Remembrance Tree craft activity above.
Supporting children through grief requires a delicate balance of empathy, patience, and understanding. By creating a nurturing environment where their emotions are acknowledged and validated, we can help children navigate the complexities of grief and learn to heal and grow from their experiences. Remember, every child grieves differently, so adapt your approach to suit their unique needs, and above all, be a source of unwavering love and support.
Natural Disasters
Click below to view the full range of brochures, all available as free downloads (pdf format).
Brochures
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Quizzes & More
A series of online storybooks, games and info by Children's Health Queensland to help support and heal yougn minds during and after natural disasters.
Video & Audio
Online Resources
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NALAG Blog Articles
Grief is a complex emotion that arises from various challenging life circumstances, including loss, illness, or natural disasters. However, one often overlooked aspect of grief is its profound impact during times of drought. In this blog, we will explore the often-unspoken grief associated when rivers dry up, its emotional toll on individuals and communities, and strategies for coping and finding resilience amidst this environmental crisis.
1. The Hidden Grief of Drought:
Droughts bring about a unique kind of grief as individuals and communities witness the gradual loss of water resources. The impact of parched land, dying crops, and dwindling water supplies can cause immense emotional distress. Recognising and addressing this hidden grief is crucial for the well-being of those affected. NALAG is very much aware of the impact on whole of community and our First Nations People.
2. Acknowledge Your Feelings:
It is essential to acknowledge and validate the range of emotions that arise during a drought. Feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, and helplessness are natural responses to the loss of water and the subsequent effects on livelihoods, ecosystems, and overall well-being. Allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment or guilt.
3. Connect with Others:
Seeking support from friends, family, and community members going through similar experiences can be immensely beneficial. Creating forums, support groups, or community initiatives to share stories, exchange coping strategies, and collectively navigate the emotional impact of drought can foster resilience and a sense of unity. Remember, NALAG's grief support service is always available.
4. Find Meaning in Conservation:
In times of water scarcity, finding meaning and purpose in conservation efforts can help alleviate grief. Embracing sustainable practices, participating in water-saving initiatives, or volunteering in local conservation projects can provide a sense of empowerment and contribute to a collective effort toward environmental healing.
5. Practice Self-Care:
Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is crucial during times of drought-induced grief. Engage in self-care activities such as meditation, spending time in nature, exercising, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy and a sense of peace. Prioritizing self-care helps build resilience and fosters emotional well-being.
6. Foster Hope and Resilience:
While grief during a drought can be overwhelming, it is important to foster a sense of hope and resilience. Educate yourself about the potential for water conservation and innovative solutions to address water loss.
7. Seek Professional Help:
If the emotional impact of drought becomes overwhelming and begins to significantly affect your daily life, seeking professional help is vital. Mental health professionals can provide guidance, coping strategies, and support tailored to your specific needs as you navigate the emotional challenges of drought-induced grief. NALAG's grief support service is always available.
Grief during times of drought is a profound and often overlooked aspect of the environmental crisis. By acknowledging and validating the emotional toll of water scarcity, connecting with others, practicing self-care, fostering hope and resilience, and seeking professional help when needed, it is possible to navigate the emotional drought and find strength amidst adversity. Together, we can create a compassionate and supportive environment that acknowledges and addresses the grief associated with drought-induced water scarcity.
Workplace
Click below to view the full range of brochures, all available as free downloads (pdf format).
Brochures
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Other
Click below to view the full range of brochures, all available as free downloads (pdf format).
Online Resources
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This booklet has been written to encourage people to talk openly about death and to become familiar with procedures around death. We fear what we don’t know, so the more knowledge we have, the more empowered we are to make decisions in a crisis and the more enabled we are to enter the grieving process and begin our healing..
Life & Beyond journals all your family needs to know when you die. Covers everything - all in one place. Don't check out and leave your family wondering!
A helpful resource book and 10-part podcast by the Good Grief Centre (USA), to create public awareness and understanding of the importance of memorialising family and friends.
A free government initiative that provides people with a single online location to notify multiple organisations that someone has died.
15 handy tips for parents.
NALAG is pleased to have partnered with Gathered Here to provide you with the opportunity to write your Will for free - it only takes 10 minutes!