Bereavement Professionals’ Insights

Jenn – Art can be grounding and meditative

Jenn explains how the textures , qualities and colours of art can be grounding and meditative

Maureen – “Peer vs professional support”

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

Rev. Sky – “Sharing”

Rev. Sky explains how sharing helps you heal.

Corrie – We cry because we love

Corrie talks about crying, hurt and love

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.

Keith – “Disenfranchised Grief”

Keith describes disenfranchised grief.

Shannon – Guilt vs Shame

Shannon talks about guilt can be a part of the grieving process but shame has to do with “is there something wrong with me”

Maureen – “Trust yourself”

Maureen talks about finding your own way in your healing process.

Grief and Disability: Carrie’s Story

It has become clear to me over time that we have much work to do to ensure the delivery of disability-sensitive grief literacy and grief support. In March of 2022 my proposal for four 1-hour sessions was approved, we provided the program for 20 participants. My heart was full in each session.

My heart remains full of hope that conversations, education, and expertise about disability sensitive end of life care and grief support will gain momentum as more and more people join in on this vital conversation.

Keith – “Hope”

Keith talks about time, healing and hope.

Jen – “Releasing grief through yoga”

Jen discusses how some poses can help release stress.

Corrie – Grief is like a rollercoaster

Corrie talks about grief over time