When experiencing the loss of a loved one, grief can be a strong and often overwhelming emotion. Surprising to some, two to three months after a loss is when bereavement and grief support can be most needed. It is during this time that personal support connections may become less frequent, decision-making slows down, and many will begin discovering their ‘new normal.’ Having an outlet to talk about your loss and your feelings is an extremely important part of ongoing grief recovery.
For these reasons RVNAhealth is grateful to resume their free, open-to-the-public, bereavement support group sessions and classes. Led by members of RVNAhealth’s bereavement team, consisting of our social workers and pastoral care providers, these groups provide a supportive environment for talking and sharing.
“We mistakenly think of grief like a cold, that it will be tough for a little while, then get better. In reality, grief is a like pair of glasses that change how you see the world. Attending a bereavement support group will help you adjust and function in your new reality. It is a place where others will say to you, ‘me too,’” says Garrett Walkup, RVNAhealth Pastoral Care Coordinator and one of our bereavement support group leaders.
Our current available schedule is as follows:
1) Ridgefield Six-Week Bereavement Class – a class on grieving and coping with loss – held Wednesdays from September 21st through October 26th, 3:00pm – 4:00pm, at the Ridgefield RVNAhealth office (27 Governor Street)
2) New Milford Bereavement Support Group – an ongoing support gathering – currently held the second Thursday of each month, 4:00pm – 5:00pm, at the New Milford RVNAhealth office (68 Park Avenue)
3) Grieving Through the Holidays - a one-day class focused on grieving and ways to navigate the holidays after a loss – November 16th, 6:00 – 7:00pm, at the Ridgefield RVNAhealth office (27 Governor Street).
To attend one of RVNAhealth’s free bereavement support sessions, you must register in advance by contacting Garrett Walkup at 475-529-6118 or gwalkup@rvnahealth.org.