Grief is a normal and sometimes a powerful range of thoughts and feelings individuals have after a loss. These emotions might include shock, anger, depression, numbness, confusion and/or guilt, and these symptoms of grief can happen suddenly or build over time. If you are experiencing grief, the important thing to remember is while you may feel isolated, you are not alone. There are people and resources in our community that can help you work through your thoughts and feelings and provide you with a place of support during your grieving process.

Miles & St. Andrew Home Health & Hospice’s grief support group meets on the second and fourth Tuesday afternoon at 2 p.m. in Damariscotta. Coping with loss is discussed in a supportive and confidential environment, facilitated by trained volunteers who receive supervision from experienced clinicians. Miles & St. Andrews Home Health & Hospice group facilitators understand that each person’s reaction to grief is unique. Topics of discussion and sharing during their meetings include dealing with loneliness, understanding the grieving process, adjusting to life without the loved one, and learning how others and dealing with their challenges.

“Groups are places to work together to support one another; they are places where everyone gives and takes,” commented Certified Hospice Volunteer and Grief Group Facilitator Sharon Abair. “While not for everyone, support groups have much to offer such as validation, a break from the loneliness that can come with grief, and an opportunity to learn from the experiences of others who have (and are) dealing with a loss.”

In addition to providing grief and bereavement services, Miles & St. Andrews Home Health & Hospice offers a comprehensive range of Home Health & Hospice services from companionship to highly-skilled nursing and therapy in homes and facilities throughout Midcoast Maine. Their grief support groups are free of charge, however, registration is required.

To register, or to request more information about grief and bereavement services available in our community, please call at 563-4177.