Global Grief Network logoGGN Non-Death Loss and Identity Grief
Global Grief Network Education Center
Module 5 of 6

Transitions and Rebuilding

About 1 hour

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Lessons in this module
  1. Transitions
  2. Practical steps
  3. More support

Objectives

By the end of this module you will be able to:

Lesson

Transitions

Moving, migrating, retiring, changing careers, or entering a new stage of life can bring loss and growth at the same time. Many transitions have an ending, an uncertain middle, and a new beginning.

Practical steps

Routines, small goals, community connection, and learning new skills can ease transitions. Keeping meaningful objects, traditions, or practices from the past can help carry identity forward.

More support

If grief over a non death loss leads to lasting hopelessness, isolation, heavy substance use, or thoughts of suicide, connect with a licensed mental health professional. In a crisis, call or text 988, or call 911 for immediate danger.

GGN reminder: Endings can make room for new beginnings, while still being worth grieving.
GGN practiceBridge objects (about 10 minutes)

Choose one object, tradition, or practice from your old life that you want to carry into your new one. Write how you will keep it present. If this brings up pain, pause and reach out to someone you trust, or call or text 988.

Fictional storyFictional Story 5.1: A new home

After moving across the world, Mei missed her language, food, and friends. She found a community cooking group where she could share her family's recipes. It helped her feel at home in a new place.

Questions to consider:

  1. What did Mei carry forward?
  2. How did it help her transition?

Discussion: Mei carried forward food traditions, which connected her past and present and helped her build new community.

Reflection Prompts

  1. What transitions are you going through?
  2. What would you like to carry forward?
  3. What would tell you that you need more support?

Module 5 Quiz

Choose one answer per question, then check your answers. You need 4 of 5 correct to pass, and every critical item must be correct. You can retake it any time.