Grief and loss
When a loved one dies, we often feel alone in grief. Everyone mourns differently, influenced by relationships, circumstances, culture, and life changes. Support can help you cope with bereavement.
Understanding grief and mourning
Grief
Grief is what we think and feel on the inside after someone we love dies. Experiencing a loss affects the whole self — body, mind and spirit. You may experience a variety of emotions, and many people have physical symptoms. Grief is a journey that can be messy and is not as orderly and predictable as you might have been told. Even if a loss was years ago, you can continue to experience pain and sadness.
Mourning
Mourning is the outward expression of grief — how we share our feelings with others. Mourning can help you work through pain and loss, moving toward hope and healing. Sharing your story or crying with others, creating meaningful funerals and rituals can help you connect with your community. Writing in a journal, playing music, and looking through pictures can help you connect with yourself. What works for a friend or family member, however, may not work for you.
How we can help
At Atlantic Health, we have services and programs to support you and your family on your unique journey through grief. Our experienced, knowledgeable and caring team can help you navigate resources and find the right fit for you. We can connect you with grief support groups, specialized programs for children, counselors and resources specific to your experience, such as perinatal loss, suicide or cancer.
Grief & loss support groups
Find upcoming grief support groups, classes, and healing events near you.
Bereavement support we offer
Camp Clover is a free, four-day bereavement day camp for children in grades 1–8 who have lost a loved one. Through fun activities and guided support, kids build healthy coping skills, connect with others, and begin to heal in a safe, caring environment.
Palliative care provides expert support for people facing serious illness, focusing on relief from pain and symptoms while addressing emotional, spiritual, and practical needs—helping patients and families improve quality of life and find meaning in care.
Chaplains at our hospital spiritual care centers provide compassionate bereavement support for patients, families, and caregivers. They offer a listening ear, prayer, and spiritual guidance tailored to individual beliefs and traditions. Chaplains can help you process grief, create meaningful rituals, and connect with community resources. Whether you seek comfort, conversation, or quiet presence, our chaplains are here to walk with you through loss.
Our bereavement services provide compassionate support through counseling, support groups, workshops, and programs for children and caregivers, helping individuals and families process grief, build coping skills, and find connection during a difficult time.
