Bereavement Professionals’ Insights

Sara – Music at the end of life

Sara talks about the values of music at the end of life

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.

Claudia – Art and coping with grief and loss

Claudia talk about how art is especially beneficial for someone coping with grief and loss

Jen – “Yoga for grief”

Jen discusses how yoga can help release stress and give you strength to help deal with the circumstances you need to deal with.

Maureen – “Peer vs professional support”

Maureen talks about getting help and what is right for you.

Jacqueline – Advice to Younger Self

Jacqueline talks about seeking help and being kind to yourself

Madelyn – Rituals and the Chinese grieving process

Madelyn talks about expressing your grief in Chinese cultures and how rituals are a war of grieving providing comfort

Amanda – “No person is an island”

Amanda talks about the power of community and the importance of reaching out.

Craig – There is No Right Way to Grieve

Craig talks about his experience with grief and how there is no right or wrong way to grieve. He shares his thoughts on how to allow yourself to do what you need to do to heal, even if it doesn’t seem like “self-care.” This video is a reminder that everyone grieves differently and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing.

Thoughts About Grief Counselling Playlist

Listen to the thoughts and insights of people and families living with grief.

Jean – Grief resources and self care

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

Rev. Sky – “Wallowing”

Rev. Sky talks about how wallowing can help you release emotions and heal.