Grief is a normal and expected response to loss, but it can also be unpredictable and complex. The emotional responses tied to grief can occur episodically, coming on in waves over time.
Sometimes, grief can feel like an overwhelming force or a long and slow ache. In honor of National Grief Awareness Day on August 30, NYS TINRC would like to share a selection of free online resources for those looking for support through their grief. Learn more about different ways to cope with grief, community support, and tools to help you feel relief.
As a reminder, you never have to face grief alone.
Discover local and national mental health organizations committed to helping people who are experiencing grief. With the help of community members and mental health professionals, you can find a support group to empathize and guide you through your journey.
The Sesame Workshop offers interactive worksheets, courses, webinars, and resources to help adults and children understand and navigate grief together, find support, and discover healthy coping mechanisms with Sesame Street’s characters.
The Dougy Center provides grief support resources for children and offers activities focused on self-expression and exploring creative outlets, including talking, drawing, and writing. This center also hosts peer support groups globally to help children and families navigate grief safely.
National Alliance for Children’s Grief
The NACG is an organization with local support branches across the United States to help children cope with grief. The organization offers support toolkits, resources for talking to children about death, and online learning webinars.
With 4 chapters (Adirondack, Mid Hudson, Suffolk County, and Western New York) across New York State, Bereaved Parents of the USA is a self-help group that offers support, care, and compassion for families who are experiencing the loss of a child, and host regular support group meetings.
Modern Loss is an online platform providing a safe space for candid conversations about grief for everyone. This platform offers support and understanding through stories, advice, and coping mechanisms.
Crisis Text Line is a 24/7 text messaging mental health support service. With free and confidential care, crisis counselors can help ground you during tough moments. To chat, text HOME to 741741.
WhatsYourGrief is a network of communities dedicated to helping people move through their grief with informative resources, educational courses, creativity, storytelling, and support.
Offering Support Through Grief
Supporting a loved one experiencing grief involves understanding and patience. While there is no “right way” to help someone grieving, it’s important to respect their space and process and avoid trying to “fix” their pain. Sometimes, simple acts of kindness, such as offering help, hope, and a listening ear, can speak volumes and can be the most beneficial.
Learn more about Harvard Medical School’s suggestions for supporting those struggling through grief here.
Additional Resources
NYS TINRC strives to assist and support all New Yorkers with effective trauma-informed care and practices that improve their well-being.
The New York State Trauma-Informed Network and Resource Center (NYS TINRC) is committed to fostering training and resources that connect all of us to safe, trusting, and supportive care. Since trauma intertwines and interferes with race, age, history, culture, language, and more, NYS TINRC believes that an intersectional approach in trauma-responsive care can be helpful not only for each of us but for collaborative communities and organizations.
Visit NYS TINRC’s website to learn more about upcoming events.