Leading up to Black Balloon Day – a day honoring the lives lost to overdoses – the Partnership holds space for families of loss. Knowing that every grief journey is different, one thing remains the same: the importance of a close support system.   

In support of those families, the Partnership’s Pat Aussem, LPC, MAC shares how to support someone going through loss and how to take care of yourself if you’re experiencing loss.

How to support someone going through loss

• One of the most helpful things people can do to help those experiencing loss is to listen – be fully present, show empathy and validate how they are feeling
• Offer support and ask "What can I do to help you?" Delivering food, offering childcare, helping with funeral arrangements and offering to help with household chores can be helpful 
• Continue to check in periodically, not just when the person has passed and the funeral services are over; holidays, birthdays and other occasions can be particularly difficult

What are some things families can do together when experiencing the loss of a family member?

• Doing an activity together that their loved one enjoyed or taking a trip to a place they loved 
• Volunteering at a nonprofit focused on a cause dear to the loved one who has passed
• Many families honor the loss of their loved one by setting a place at holiday dinners for them

How to take care of yourself if you’re experiencing loss 

• Accepting your feelings
• Planning on how to handle triggers
• Keeping your routine including activities that bring joy
• Taking a break from the news
• Looking after your physical health
• Postponing major life events
• Being patient with yourself 

You don’t have to go through this alone. It’s important to get support from family and friends, support groups, social services or seeking professional help.

How the Partnership can help those experiencing loss

WEB: Walking Through Grief Together: A compilation of grief resources including our support services, stories of families who have experienced loss and how to honor a loved one with us

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