Grief is messy and confusing. It’s all-consuming. And it’s unlike anything else you’ve been through. Here’s where the ‘U’ word comes in. When the ‘U’ word is missing grievers suffer, and their loved ones do, too. (more…)
Archive for the ‘How to help grievers’ Category
When the ‘U’ Word Is Missing, Grievers Suffer
Tuesday, August 15th, 2017Reject the ‘J’ Word that Devastates Grievers
Friday, July 28th, 2017
The ‘J’ word that devastates grievers is something you probably would not intentionally do. But you might unconsciously allow it to sneak in and influence what you think, do, or say. (more…)
The ‘O’ Word that Hits Grievers—and What to Do about It
Monday, October 3rd, 2016
This one should be pretty easy to figure out. The ‘O’ word that hits grievers is a common reaction to grief. (more…)
Is There a Shortcut through Grief?
Monday, July 18th, 2016
How many of us have wondered, “Is there a shortcut through grief?” – and desperately wished that somehow, some way, we’d discover that quicker way. (more…)
Grief Is Hard
Thursday, October 22nd, 2015
By Judy Brizendine
For once, let’s forget about dancing around the bush – or being politically correct. Let’s agree not to sweep the truth under the rug and stay silent. If you’ve faced a major loss, you know the truth. Grief is hard.
Even grief professionals are sometimes surprised and overwhelmed when they face a profound personal loss. (more…)
Silence from Friends Is Painful
Monday, April 13th, 2015
By Judy Brizendine
I recently received a note from a reader asking me a question and suggesting a topic to write about. And then she went on to tell me her story. She has been facing a deep loss in her life over the past year or more. Silence from friends is painful. Being ignored (and considered invisible) is devastating. (more…)
Are Christians Supposed to Grieve?
Wednesday, March 11th, 2015
By Judy Brizendine
People have asked me this question enough times that I thought it deserved some attention: “Are Christians supposed to grieve?” Confusion even leads some Christians to feel guilty when they do grieve and to question the strength of their faith.
Let’s set the record straight up front. (more…)
Simplify — Holiday Tips to Help Grievers
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Holidays conjure up a myriad of memories and emotions for each of us, but when you’re going through a painful time of grief and loss, the holidays can be especially challenging. In a guest blog I wrote for Fairhaven Memorial, I share a few simple, practical tips to help you find peace and experience moments of joy in the midst of your sadness.
The entire article can be found through the link below. I hope you’ll take a few moments to read and consider these suggestions to ease your stress and help you to experience the best from the holidays this year. Feel free to share the post with anyone who may benefit.
Here’s the link to the article: Simplify
© 2014 Judy Brizendine
Photo Credit: Photo courtesy of office.microsoft.com
Our 15-Year-Old Cat Taught Me Something about Grief
Saturday, October 25th, 2014
By Judy Brizendine
Max and Molly were inseparable. They spent their entire lives together – until Molly became sick with an incurable form of cancer. Soon afterward we had to put her to sleep. Then Max was alone, without his sister, for the first time. And surprisingly, Max our cat taught me something about grief.
Pause and Think Twice Before You Speak to Someone Who Is Grieving
Friday, August 15th, 2014After reading and hearing countless comments about the death of Robin Williams, once again it’s clear that a great lack of understanding surrounds grief, loss, and related issues. Even though the intent of most people is to provide comfort and support, they can inadvertently say something that’s hurtful or damaging.
(more…)
Tags: grief is misunderstood, how to help grievers, senseless hurtful comments to grievers, suicide and mental illness, understanding grief, what not to say to grievers, what to say to grievers
Posted in Coping with Grief, Decisions and choices, How to help grievers, Needs of grievers, Stunned by Grief, What to say to grievers | 4 Comments »