Grief support group kicks off today

No matter what the circumstances, grief is a painful, confusing process.

Now, there is support — thanks to a new GriefShare group program kicking off Saturday, Feb. 10, in the community.

A GriefShare group is a safe, welcoming place where people understand the difficult emotions of grief. At this 14-week support group program, participants will discover what to expect in the days ahead and what’s “normal” in grief. 

There are no neat, orderly stages of grief, Kathy Kubiak, co-facilitator, said. 

"You will learn helpful ways of coping with grief, in all its unpredictability — and gain solid support each step of the way, said Kubiak, who is facilitating the group along with her husband, Jim Kubiak.

At each weekly meeting, participants view a video featuring respected counselors, pastors, and healthcare professionals on grief-related topics, plus relatable personal stories of grief.

"The small-group discussion allows people time to talk, share support, and personally apply what they learned on the video," she said.

A workbook is provided, which includes valuable exercises for participants to help them navigate their grieving process.

Among the topics covered are how to manage grief-related emotions such as loneliness, anxiety, sadness, anger, and regret; how to cope with the changes in your life and relationships; and how to recognize what’s normal in grief and what to do if you feel stuck or hopeless. 

GriefShare group participants have repeatedly shared that they feel comforted and encouraged by being in a place where people truly understand what they’re going through, Kathy Kubiak said.

"Your bereavement experience may be recent or not so recent," she said. "No matter how long it’s been, this is an opportunity to be around people who understand what you are feeling. If you have experienced the death of a family member or friend, you are invited to attend."

The program will be held Saturday, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. from Feb. 10 to May 11, at Cedar Hills Church, 227 McGhee Road. The cost is $25 (for the workbook, collected at the first session).

For pre-registration, go online to griefshare.org/groups/177767/registrations/new.

For further information, contact Jim Kubiak at 760-855-6111 (call or text).