Grief Resources

Since much of Adaline Ave is inspired by, and about the loss of a spouse, the following resources are suggested for further reading and support:

It’s OK That You’re Not OK, by Megan Devine: Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold, this is an excellent and comforting resource for those who have lost spouses. It is written in such a personable style that most of the themes apply to all types of grief.
refugeingrief.com: Megan Devine’s website, which contains online opportunities for grief activity and resources. Also, consult YouTube for Megan Devine’s videos.
Healing After Loss, by Martha W. Hickman: This book is a daily reading format having many quotes and readings that may be helpful.

The following comments are personal opinions of Peter Loss regarding grief:

I worked with an individual therapist following the loss of Maria and remain an active member of a hospice-based grief support group.

On a purely personal note, timelines, guidelines (stages), cultural cliches (“time heals all wounds”, “he’s in a better place”, “stay strong”), unsolicited advice and judgments (in some professional circles, a griever’s struggle with healthy ongoing grief after one year, is referred to as Prolonged Grief Disorder) are not helpful. Each griever follows his/her own path. Grief can be an unpredictable, tumultuous, bewildering, and oftentimes isolating journey. There are triggers and reminders everywhere.

Support is crucial

Support is crucial, please network with family, other grievers, and friends, professionals, but with whomever provides a safe, comforting place to openly discuss the person you lost, and your emotions and conflicts, for as long as you need to. Exercise, eat healthily, and sleep if you can.

You are not alone.

Keep in mind grievers have different needs, not everyone may need professional services, may find a group helpful, or may need resources at any specific time frame. As with support and counseling resources of any kind, do your homework, and interview the providers, and if the resource does not appear to meet your needs, don’t be discouraged and keep looking. Here are some considerations should you seek a grief support group:

Services are specifically designed for the loss of children, spouses, family members, or friends, rather than combining all grievers.
Services are led and/or initiated by licensed professionals with grief experience, some may be hospice-based, and who have screened group participants for need.