Aug. 3, 2022 — In this column, PeaceHealth experts address current health issues and topics impacting our amazing Florence community. We hope you find it informative. If you have any suggestions for topics, please send them to Dr. Willy Foster at [email protected].

The death of someone close to you can be one of the most life-changing events you will ever experience. Grief is your reaction to that loss.

The bereavement specialists at Peace Harbor Hospice understand the importance of honoring the experience of grief and finding healthy ways to outwardly express it. No two people experience grief in the same way or on the same timeline. Some people need support immediately following a death, while others need it years later.

You do not have to grieve alone. Peace Harbor Hospice offers a variety of grief support programs to ensure that people in our community have a safe place to explore and share their reactions to grief. All are welcome to participate and these programs are free of charge.

The Grief and Loss Support Group meets weekly on Wednesdays from 2 to 3 p.m. Community members are encouraged to drop in whenever they need the support. Each session explores a different topic and is guided by a grief support counselor. Examples of the topics covered include what is helpful and unhelpful in grief; listening to your instincts; how to outwardly express grief and coping with grief during the holidays.

If you’re looking for a more structured group, consider registering for the “Journey Through Grief” class, which is offered quarterly. Participants commit to attending a seven-week series with the same group of classmates. Each session includes a presentation on a topic, such as changes experienced in bereavement, or practical tips on coping with grief, followed by group discussion and time to support each other and share experiences.

This is an opportunity for those who are in mourning to meet others who have had similar experiences, learn that grief is a normal process, talk about their grief in a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment, receive support, offer support to others by listening and learn about the grieving process.

Peace Harbor Hospice is currently accepting registrations for the next class, which will be held Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Andrews Episcopal Church at 2135 E. 19th St. in Florence.

If you’re interested in this class, or have questions about what kind of support might meet your needs, please contact Nancy Smith, LCSW, Bereavement Coordinator at Peace Harbor Hospice at 541-997-3418.

Peace Harbor Hospice provides a comfortable and dignified transition toward the end of life for patients with terminal illnesses. Our entire team works with patients and their loved ones to ensure that they feel comfortable and supported. Our care team serves patients where they live — in their homes, assisted and senior living or skilled nursing facilities.

For more information, go to www.peacehealth.org/services/hospice-care.