Confidentiality
What is shared here stays here. This is a space for personal stories, not outside discussion. The only exception is if there are safety concerns.
We listen; we do not fix or compare
We are here to listen and be present, not to give advice or solutions. We avoid comparing grief or shifting focus to our own stories while someone is sharing.
Everyone grieves differently
There is no “right” way to grieve. Some people cry, some do not. You might feel sadness, anger, numbness, relief, or even moments of normalcy. All of it is valid.
Share at your own pace
You’re always welcome to share, and you can also pass at any time. Listening is just as much participation as speaking.
Speak from your own experience
Try to use “I” statements rather than generalizing. This helps keep the space respectful and grounded.
Be present, do not interrupt or manage the moment
When someone is sharing, we let them have their experience without jumping in. Support here is more about being with someone than doing something for them.
Practical care without intrusion
We will have tissues available so you can take what you need. We avoid interrupting someone’s experience to offer help.
Respect boundaries around touch
We do not assume physical touch is welcome. Everyone has different comfort levels, especially in grief.
No hierarchy of grief
No loss is more or less valid than another. We avoid comparing whose grief is “worse” or “harder.”
Making space for everyone
We want to make sure everyone who wants to share has space. The facilitator may step in to help balance time so no one feels left out.
We start and end on time
We will begin and end on time each week. Toward the end, we will gently start to close so no one feels cut off.
Boundaries outside the group
If you connect with others here, be mindful not to rely on each other as your only support.
Facilitator role
The facilitator is here to guide the space and help keep it safe and balanced.
Safety and support outside the group
This group is not set up to support active thoughts of harming yourself. If that is something you are experiencing, please reach out to 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
Keep the focus on your own experience
We try not to ask the group questions or take a poll of others’ experiences. This space is for sharing your own thoughts and feelings.
