“Grief Awareness Day,” recognized annually on August 30^th, was created by Angie Cartwright in 2014 after she experienced multiple personal losses.  We often associate grief with death, but grief can result from many life events, such as divorce, job loss, moving, a pet’s death, or health crises.

The purpose of this day is to break the silence around grief, remove social stigmas, and show people that they don’t have to cope alone.

Grief looks different for everyone, but healing often begins with small intentional steps.  The 3 C’s of Grief” offer a simple framework as part of a reflection exercise to help individuals and families navigate loss with care and clarity.

The first C is to Choose how you care for yourself on a daily basis.  Ask yourself, “What kind of support do I need today?”.  Examples include space to cry, someone to talk to, time alone, a creative outlet (writing, music, drawing), movement or nature, or something else.

The second C is to Connect with people or practices that offer comfort.  Ask yourself, “Who can I connect with right now?”.  Examples include a friend, family member, support group, therapist, spiritual guide, a pet, yourself.

The third C is to Communicate your feelings in ways that feel safe and honest.  Ask yourself, “What’s one feeling I need to express right now?  Is there someone I want to talk to? What do I want to say? If I’m not ready to talk, I can still express my grief.” Examples of expressing grief include writing it down, drawing it, praying or meditating, listening to music, and making something.

If you are grieving a loss and are self-medicating to cope, call the Allegany Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (ACASA) at 585-593-6738, and make an appointment with a trained professional who cares about helping you “sort things out.”  Reach out, and remember that you are not alone! (The above information on “The 3 C’s of Grief” can be found online at www.thehealingplaceinfo.org, including a printable worksheet.)