Bereavement Professionals’ Insights

Janice – “Being triggered”

Janice discusses triggering, overreacting, under-reacting, and taking responsibility for the size of our feelings.

Rev. Sky – “What is grief?”

Rev. Sky talks about the universality of grief and how people grieve differently.

Jen – “Releasing grief through yoga”

Jen discusses how some poses can help release stress.

A Million Other Things: Grieving a Drug Poisoning Death

Sister, father, son, niece, best friend – some of these words might be how you would describe your loved one who has died of an overdose or drug poisoning. People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) are not defined by their substance use – they are a million other things to those who love and miss them dearly. Drug poisoning and overdose deaths are stigmatized in our society. The focus is on how the person died, not who they are. Society still holds onto old notions and beliefs about drugs which come with a value judgment about people who use drugs, which further contributes to stigma. Not everyone who uses drugs is an addict and not all drug use is inherently problematic. People who use drugs deserve dignity and respect when we are remembering and honouring those who have died by overdose or drug poisoning.

Maureen – “Grief can change the landscape of your relationships”

Maureen discusses how relationships can be challenged by grief.

Christian – “Grief in the opioid crisis”

Christian talks about looking for answers in great sadness.

Jenn – Your art completely belongs to you

Jenn explains the wonderful thing about art is that piece belongs completely to you and you have the power to do whatever you wish with it . She makes some suggestions as to what you may want to do.

Madelyn -Healing and support group for Asian Canadian women

Madelyn discusses the value in having your voice heard

Jean – Grief resources and self care

Jean talks about resources that help in processing grief and self care

Sara – Listening to music

Sara discusses how listening to music can help navigate loss

Maureen – “Milestones and anniversaries”

Maureen talks about loss and what happens over time.

Jean – What grief feels like physically

Jean discusses the physical effects she has experienced in grief