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National Grief Awareness Week

The first week of December is observed as National Grief Awareness Week. It’s an important observance dedicated to raising awareness about grief and loss. It aims to break the stigma surrounding grief, acknowledging that it is a natural response to loss and can affect individuals in various ways. This week provides an opportunity to offer support to those who are grieving, foster understanding, and promote open conversations about this often-sensitive topic.

Upcoming Events

Monday, December 2, 1–2:30 p.m. ET

This webinar will highlight the social, cultural, and community perspectives of grief and raise awareness about the differences, yet similarities of this human experience.

Panelists:

  • Heather Hill, Renaissance Funeral Home
  • Dr. O’Tilia Hunter, SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment
  • Joyal Mulheron, Evermore
  • Tara Wright, Sesame Workshop
  • Brenda Vezina, The Transformation Center/Kiva Centers

Friday, December 6, 1–2:30 p.m. ET

Register Here

Although many experience grief in a way that decreases over time, there are others who do not. This webinar will help people to identify and learn about the supports that are available for those who experience extraordinarily intense and/or long-lasting grief.

Panelists:

  • Carrie Epstein, Yale Child Study Center
  • Glen Lord, Peer Support Community Partners
  • Dr. Ruby Mendenhall, Carle Illinois College of Medicine and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • Michelle Palmer, Licensed Social Worker, Grief Expert
  • Dr. Holly Prigerson, Weill Cornell Medicine
  • Dr. Katherine Shear, Center for Prolonged Grief, Columbia University School of Social Work

Social Media Toolkit

In recognition of all those who are grieving

Post Copy — All Platforms: December 2-8 is National Grief Awareness Week. Take this time to learn about the impacts of grief and how to best support family, friends, and loved ones. #NGAW

Post Copy — All Platforms: You’re not alone. Support is available to help guide you through any part of your grieving process. This National Grief Awareness Week, find resources to help: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

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 Help Raise Awareness - Graphic 1 (PNG | 328 KB)

Grief is… normal, natural, and unique

Post Copy — All Platforms: Grief is normal. It is natural. It is unique. National Grief Awareness Week is a time to reassure everyone that you do not have to hide or be ashamed of grief. #NGAW

Post Copy — All Platforms: At some point within your life, you or someone you know will experience grief. Grief is not something that should be hidden and endured alone. To learn more about how to support others or find support: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

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 Help Raise Awareness - Graphic 2 (PNG | 328 KB)

What is grief? What does grief feel like?

Post Copy — All Platforms: Grief is the emotional, mental, and physical response to a loss involving a wide range of reactions. Grief is deeply personal and a natural process. This week, help spread awareness and share resources to ensure no one grieves alone: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

Post Copy — All Platforms: Grief looks and feels different for everyone and can be present for various amounts of time. There is no right or wrong way to feel while grieving, but it’s important to know that support and resources are available: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

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 What is grief? Graphic 1 (PNG | 1.1 MB)

How to: Support someone through grief

Post Copy—All Platforms: Grief is the emotional, mental, and physical response to a loss involving a wide range of reactions. Grief is deeply personal and a natural process. This week, help spread awareness and share resources to ensure no one grieves alone: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

Post Copy—All Platforms: Grief looks and feels different for everyone and can be present for various amounts of time. There is no right or wrong way to feel while grieving, but it’s important to know that support and resources are available: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

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 What is grief? Graphic 2 (PNG | 1.1 MB)

People who may benefit from more support

Post Copy — All Platforms: The way people experience grief depends on many factors. Some might experience very strong and long-lasting grief that can make daily life more difficult. There is additional support available for this experience. Learn more: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

Post Copy — All Platforms: Everybody grieves differently, but if you are experiencing long-lasting and intense emotions that make it difficult to experience daily life you may be experiencing Prolonged Grief. Find support this National Grief Awareness Week: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

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 What is grief? Graphic 3 (PNG | 1.1 MB)

In honor and remembrance of those who have left us

Post Copy — All Platforms: Grief comes from feelings of connection, care, and love. This National Grief Awareness Week take time to remember and reflect on moments you have shared with loved ones. Remember to rest and give yourself time. Learn more: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

Post Copy — All Platforms:During National Grief Awareness Week, let’s also take time to honor, recognize, and celebrate the lives of those we have lost. In remembrance, take some time to reflect. Learn more: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

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 Remembering Those We Have Lost Graphic 1 (PNG | 229 KB)

Holidays can bring up memories of those we have lost

Post Copy — All Platforms: Holidays and special dates can be a difficult time. If your family, friend, or loved one is grieving a loss, offer help and support to assure them that they’re not alone in their grieving process. Learn more: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

Post Copy — All Platforms: Holidays and special dates can be a particularly difficult time for those experiencing grief. It’s important to find time for self-care and to ask for support. Find support this National Grief Awareness week: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/national-grief-awareness-week #NGAW

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 Remembering Those We Have Lost Graphic 2 (PNG | 199 KB)

Last Updated: 11/25/2024