You can show support for people experiencing grief in a number of ways
At the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), we recognize there are many kinds of grief. Grief is a powerful emotional response to loss that can affect people in completely different ways. Healing from grief can take a long time and while the intensity of the loss may fade over time, the feeling can last for years.
Tuesday, Nov. 19, marks National Day of Grief and Bereavement. The day is a time to reflect and take action to create connection with family, loved ones and community members who are experiencing grief.
When someone is affected by grief, it can be difficult to know how to talk to them and what to say. It is important to remember that words aren't necessary to connect with someone going through grief. Your presence is enough to make a difference in supporting someone who is on their bereavement journey. Finding connection through grief is a powerful way to help people move forward. You can walk alongside someone that is on a grief and healing journey in several ways.
Connecting through a phone call, giving them a hug, spending time on the land with them, singing songs and drumming, talking about honouring the loved one who has passed; these are all ways in which you can show you are there for someone. Listen to the person sharing a story about their loved one they are grieving for. Remembering those we love is an important way to take steps forward toward healing.
Grief is a natural emotion and is an expression of unconditional love. As we continue our earthly journey, we grow and heal one heart, one mind, one body, and one spirit at a time. Our Ancestors guide us through life and all its blessings and lessons as we become courageous on our journey.
- Elder Jo-Anne Gottfriedson
The FNHA is also focused on grief surrounding the toxic drug public health emergency, a crisis that has claimed far too many lives in First Nations communities. It is important to offer space for grieving families, friends, youth, and communities to reflect and connect, to provide light when it seems darkest. Deaths from a toxic drug poisoning are often surrounded by stigma and shame, so acknowledging the lives of those impacted by toxic drugs can help honour and remember loved ones in a good way.
Getting support
First Nations cultures and teachings tell us that storytelling is a good way to share our knowledge and experiences and learn from one another. By sharing the stories of those who are no longer physically with us, we may see that we are not alone. Be kind and patient with yourself. Elders, First Nations end-of-life guides, mental health and wellness workers, spiritual care, cultural support providers, counsellors, doctors and nurses; these are all examples of people who you can reach out to for support. You may also seek out support groups or harm reduction services.
If you're looking to be a facilitator for a grief support group related to toxic drug poisoning deaths, the FNHA provides training for peer leaders. Healing Indigenous Hearts aims to help Indigenous people move together from grief towards healing and hope.
Crisis lines and emergency services are available, many of them open 24 hours a day to offer support whenever you need it. Reach out to your primary health care provider, local First Nations health centre or Friendship Centre to learn more about services that may be available.
You can find details of these supports on our mental health and wellness webpage.
