Objectives
By the end of this module you will be able to:
- Apply the four steps of this program.
- Recognize cumulative grief in individuals and communities.
- Support pacing and restoration.
- Care for yourself when you witness repeated loss.
Lesson
Notice, Untangle, Pace, Restore
Notice the pattern of losses and their effect on capacity. Untangle losses by naming and honoring each one. Pace grief with rest and life. Restore capacity through rest, connection, meaning, and support.
Community awareness
Some communities face repeated loss. Practitioners can recognize this, offer group remembrance, and adjust expectations. Asking how many losses has your community faced lately? can open important conversations.
Your own load
Practitioners who witness many losses can carry cumulative grief too. Notice your own cup and use the same practices you offer others.
GGN practiceA loss history question (about 10 minutes)
Write a gentle question you could ask to learn about someone's recent losses, such as: Have there been other losses for you lately? Practice saying it. If this brings up pain, pause and reach out to someone you trust, or call or text 988.
Fictional storyFictional Story 6.1: The community vigil
After a hard year of several deaths in a small town, a community center educator, Lorna, organized a remembrance evening where people could light candles for each person lost. Many said it was the first time they had grieved together.
Questions to consider:
- Why did the vigil help?
- What could a practitioner do next?
Discussion: The vigil gave each loss a moment and gave the community a shared place for grief. Next steps could include peer support groups and sharing crisis resources such as 988.
Reflection Prompts
- How can you learn about the full picture of someone's losses?
- What could community remembrance look like where you are?
- How full is your own cup?