Grief is personal, and there is no single right way to navigate it. Research suggests that rituals, meaningful activities, and social support can help people cope with loss.
Rituals can create space for remembrance. A review of 22 studies found that many grief interventions incorporating rituals were associated with improvements in grief-related symptoms, although researchers could not isolate the effects of rituals alone. Creating an ofrenda, lighting a candle, or preparing a loved one's favorite meal can offer meaningful time to reflect. (Wojtkowiak et al., 2021)
Culture and community can help us feel connected. Shared traditions, ceremonies, photographs, and family stories can help us honor loved ones and feel connected to our families and communities. (Review of funeral practices and bereavement, 2022)
Movement may support well-being during grief. A systemic review of 25 studies found preliminary evidence that activities such as walking, yoga, and running may support well-being and coping after loss, although more research is needed. (Williams et al., 2021)
Support can remind us we aren't alone. Talking with someone we trust, joining a grief support group, or connecting with a mental health professional can provide space to process emotions without pressure to grieve in a particular way.
Grief does not follow a schedule, and healing does not mean forgetting. Whether you find comfort in cultural traditions, time in nature, movement, or conversations with others, give yourself permission to find what feels meaningful to you. If you or someone you care about is navigating a loss, support is available:
Southern Oregon
WinterSpring Grief Support through The Learning Well: Explore grief support and education resources. Contact the program to ask about current offerings and eligibility.
Pearl Funeral Home Dia De Los Muertos Celebration A Día de los Muertos Celebration, a vibrant evening honoring loved ones with free food, free face painting, crafts, and ofrendas Sunday, November, 3:30 PM, 2100 Siskiyou Blvd. Medford, OR 97504
Portland Metro Area
The Lantern: Grief support groups for adults experiencing different types of loss.
Dougy Center: Grief support resources for children, teens, young adults, and families.
Eugene and Lane County
Center for Community Counseling: Explore counseling and support groups.
Online Grief Support
GriefShare: Find a support group.
Two Daughters Foundation: Explore peer support for young adults who have lost a parent or parental figure.
Pet Loss Support
Losing a pet can mean losing a beloved family member, daily companion, and source of comfort. This grief deserves care and compassion, too.
DoveLewis Pet Loss Support: Offers free pet-loss support groups, with in-person and virtual options. Explore resources and upcoming groups.
Oregon Veterinary Medical Association: Find guidance and resources for coping with the loss of a pet. Read more.
Emotional Support
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential crisis support, available 24/7. 988lifeline.org
David Romprey Oregon Warmline: Call 1-800-698-2392 for peer support when you need someone to talk to.
Senior Loneliness Line: Call 1-800-282-7035 for emotional support for older adults experiencing loneliness or loss. seniorlonelinessline.org
As we care for others in our communities, let's remember to care for ourselves, too. May we find comfort in the traditions that connect us, the memories we carry, and the people who remind us we don't have to navigate grief alone.