Grief Support Groups: Finding Comfort After Loss

Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences we face in life. The pain can feel overwhelming, and the journey through grief is often isolating. While everyone processes loss differently, one thing remains true—you don’t have to go through it alone.

You might be thinking, "I know I don't have to. I just don't want to talk about this in front of a group... let alone a group of strangers." I want to ask you to acknowledge your thoughts and feelings of fear, discomfort, or resistance or whatever else you feel. Notice it's there and keep reading.

Grief support groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their feelings, connect with others who understand (or want to), and find comfort in knowing they are not alone. Here’s how these groups can be incredibly helpful during the grieving process.

1. A Sense of Community

One of the most challenging aspects of grief is feeling like no one truly understands your pain. Experiencing loss is part of being human. I've seen people from all walks of life connect and build unlikely friendships and bonds through sharing their grief. Support groups often bring together people who have experienced similar losses, creating a sense of belonging and understanding. Being surrounded by those who “get it” can provide immense relief.

2. A Safe Space to Express Emotions

Grieving individuals often feel pressure to “move on” or hide their emotions. In a grief support group, there’s no need to suppress feelings. It’s a judgment-free space where you can openly share your thoughts, fears, and memories, knowing that others are there to listen and support you. It might surprise you to hear others tell you that it's okay to feel anger or guilt or even relief after losing a loved one. Whatever feelings you share, just know that allowing the emotions to come out is good and part of the healing process. If we suppress or deny them, they don't go anywhere, and often, they fester and cause more problems.

3. Guidance from Trained Facilitators

Many grief support groups are led by experienced facilitators, such as therapists or counselors, who provide tools and coping strategies to help navigate grief. They guide discussions, offer insights, and ensure that the group remains a supportive and healing environment.

4. Learning from Others’ Experiences

Hearing others share their stories can be incredibly validating and encouraging. In general, group therapy settings are meant to help participants see things from another perspective because you will hear people share how they have worked through their grief. This is not about advice or telling people how they should be coping. Listening to others in group therapy is about opening up to possibilities. Others may see something in a way completely different from how you have been able to see it because of where you are on your journey. It reminds you that grief is a journey with ups and downs, and that healing is possible. Learning how others have coped with their loss can provide hope and practical strategies for your own healing process.

When I facilitate groups, I encourage group members to refrain from advice giving. If a member is coming to the group with a problem and wants suggestions or recommendations, then the person needs to ask for it before the rest of the group jumps in with solution-focused ideas. There is more to say about this and why I'm including a picture of a rock climber, but I need to save it for another time. Just know that we are all doing the best we can climbing our own mountain.

5. Reducing Feelings of Isolation

Grief can be lonely, even when surrounded by family and friends. Support groups help reduce that sense of isolation by offering consistent companionship and understanding. As I mentioned earlier, over time, many participants form meaningful connections and even friendships through sharing in their grief process.

6. Encouragement to Move Forward at Your Own Pace

Healing doesn’t mean forgetting. Grief support groups help individuals honor their loved ones while finding ways to move forward in a healthy and meaningful way. There’s no timeline for grief, and support groups provide the reassurance that it’s okay to heal at your own pace.

Finding the Right Grief Support Group for You

If you’re struggling with loss, consider joining a grief support group. Many organizations, churches, and therapy centers offer free or low-cost support groups both in person and online. Finding the right group may take some time, but the comfort and support you receive can make a profound difference in your healing journey.

You don’t have to go through grief alone. Whether you’re newly grieving or have been carrying loss for years, a support group can offer the understanding, connection, and healing you need.

If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, consider reaching out to a local support group. And if you are near the Tustin area in Southern California, I offer both individual and group therapy for grief. The group I am facilitating is an in-person meeting starting on May 31st.

Healing begins when we allow ourselves to share, remember, and support one another.