We're here to help...

I've started this thread today as a place for members to post questions, specifically for those who have been asking about how to use the site. Please know you can still message me privately, but for general questions this will be a nice forum as others may have similar questions as well.
I will also try using this space to post some things about the site (features you may not be aware of), words of encouragement, or questions for you regarding your experience here so far.
I start every support group I run by saying, "This is your group. It's not my group. I don't have an agenda or expectations. It's about you and what YOU need".
The same goes for this website. Grief in Common is your site, and I want it to be a help to you, so please ask any questions or let me know what you need!

 

Hi Maureen, thanks for being here. I'm so glad you have recommended our site, I think your daughter can find good support here. I have found that following a loss, people really want to connect with those who have lost a loved to similar circumstances, or who have had a similar loss (loss of parent or spouse, for example). We are a new site, but growing very quickly. In time we hope to have people from all over, so that if a connection is made and two members ever want to meet in person they will be able to do so. For now, I think a lot of support can be gained through the message boards and private messaging (which can turn into phone support as well).
In the meanwhile if she is looking for a face to face support group, I suggest you try GRASP (Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing). Their website is www.grasphelp.org (there is a link from this site under resources). There you can do a search to find groups in her area.
As for what you can do ---it sounds like you are already doing it by being there and listening. I find people also appreciate when friends and family offer specific help...rather than saying, "I'm here if you need me," or "let me know what I can do", they do it (bring food over, help with errands or chores around the house, etc.). More than anything your love and understanding will mean so much to her, and she's lucky to have your concern! Thank you for being here and giving us the chance to help. All my best...

 

Hi Bonnie - yes, you certainly can. I have copied and pasted instructions posted under the "How This Works" thread - I hope it's a help!
Thank you for your question and please let me know if there is anything else you need.
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If you haven't already, go to "Make a Connection" and then "Find Others Who Are Grieving". There you can search for others, based on the criteria that is important to you.
As we are a new site, I would recommend keeping the search rather general - perhaps searching by "Circumstances of your loss" or "Who Have you Lost". Including too much criteria could narrow the search.
Once you find a list of people, you can view their profile. Click on "Information" to find out more about them, and there you can "Start a Conversation" which will send a private message that will be sent to their private email (notifications should be received in their regular email's inbox).

 

Hi Toni, I'm so sorry to hear of your losses and all that you are going through. I'm not sure if you had the chance to see, but this week's blog focuses on Grief and Anxiety (find the Blog thread under "Resources"). It is such a common experience for the griever and for some it can impact every part of their life and what they're able to do and not do. I'm hoping this article can be a help to you, but I know that connecting with others who share a similar experience can often help as well. If you haven't already, please check out our forums or do a search for other members by going to "Make a Connection" and then "Find Others Who Are Grieving". Our members understand, and I find people come here to offer help as much as to get it. We truly wish you all the best. Please take care~