Grief Awareness & Resources To Support Your Journey

As we approach National Grief Awareness Day this month, it’s a gentle reminder that grief is unique journey and one that’s walked over time with no clear destination or timeline.

At Columbia Community Mental Health (CCMH), we want to remind you that you’re not alone. We are here to honor the courage it takes to keep going, putting one foot in front of the other, while carrying heavy loss.

Grief isn’t something to just “get over”

We live in a world where tidy timelines and quick fixes rule all. Grief, however, doesn’t follow these rules. It’s not just something you can quickly “get over” or leave behind. It’s something you carry with you everyday and sometimes, just being surrounded by support is enough.

There’s no “right” way to grieve. Your feelings are valid, regardless of how unexpected or overwhelming they may seem. Let’s work together to break the silence surrounding grief. Talking about it, sharing your story, even in small ways, or simply letting yourself feel is brave. You don’t have to hold everything in.

The hidden effects of grief

Grief can impact much more than your emotions. Many people experience a range of effect such as:

• Memory lapses
• Difficulty focusing
• Disrupted sleep
• Low energy or motivation
• Physical symptoms like headaches or aches

If you happen to notice these changes in yourself or a loved one, it’s not a sign of weakness or failure at all; it’s simply the process of grieving. Be kind and gentle with yourself and know that these are completely normal responses to loss.

Ways to support yourself or a loved one on a grief journey

Grieving can feel incredibly isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here are a few gentle ways to care for yourself while navigating loss:

It’s okay to say, “This is hard.” Naming your feelings can actually make them less overwhelming. Healing isn’t linear, so accept where you're at. Some days will feel heavier than others, but all of them are valid.

Connecting with people can be deeply healing through conversation, a quiet walk, or simply sitting together.

Stick to simple routines you can easily follow. Eating, sleeping, and small acts of self-care can help ground you when everything else feels uncertain.

Express your feelings through journaling, art, music, or movement. Find what helps you release and honor your grief.

It’s always okay to reach out and ask for help. This may include practical support, professional counseling, or just someone to listen or a shoulder to cry on.

At CCMH, our team offers caring, compassionate counseling, support groups, and community resources for anyone who is grieving. We know that each journey is unique, and we’re here for you no matter where you are in your healing process. If you or someone you know if having a difficult time with loss or just needs someone to talk to, please reach out to us. Our Crisis Line number is (503) 782-4499 if you need immediate crisis support.

Grief takes courage, and you’re not “failing” by feeling lost, tired, or unmotivated. You’re simply grieving. With the right support, patience, and space to feel heard and seen, healing is totally possible in your own time and your own way. Together, let’s keep breaking the silence around grief, honoring stories, and holding space for each other to process difficult feelings. Your journey matters and support is always within reach!