Bereavement Professionals’ Insights

Calls to Care, Calls to Action: Bearing Witness to Global Catastrophic Loss of Life and Traumatic Events

We bear witness to stories of mass loss of lives, stories of families in Gaza being forced from their land, loss of culture and traditions, and countless other ways systems of colonization and oppression can contribute to other non-death losses those who are directly affected currently and have historically faced. As we discussed in a previous article, we can also experience collective grief following natural disasters, accidents, international conflict, and acts of violence that have resulted in catastrophic loss of lives.

Shannon – Blessings and sadness

Shannon discusses how just showing up, being present is a powerful way of supporting to someone who has lost. Listen more – talk less.

Grief Busting Zine [Downloadable!]

This zine is designed by mental health professionals and contains information about grief, different types of grief we may experience, gentle reminders on how to move through grief, as well as tips for those who may be supporting someone in their life who is grieving.

Claudia – Art, art as therapy and art therapy

Claudia discusses the definition of therapy and how art therapists are formally trained.

Christian – “Jeff’s Story”

Christian tells Jeff”s story… the good and his struggles.

Claudia – Being stuck and art therapy

Claudia discusses remunating how art therapist can help create different positive perspectives

Amanda – “It’s a gift to love someone”

Amanda talks about grief and it’s connection to love.

Rev. Sky – “Grief is a journey”

Rev. Sky talks about her personal loss and the positive changes that happen as we journey through grief.

Adrianna – Death doulas and grief

Adrianna explains what a death doula is

Christian – “Grief in the opioid crisis”

Christian talks about looking for answers in great sadness.

Janice – “Feelings”

Janice talks about the importance of allowing our feelings as that’s the only way to get through them.

Christian – “When people say dumb things”

Christian explains how he deals with people who say dumb things.