It’s OK that you are not OK

Losing someone you love is one of the hardest things anyone can face. Grief is a deeply personal journey, and there’s no “right way” to experience it. Whether you’ve lost someone to addiction, illness, or unexpected tragedy, these resources are here to provide comfort, understanding, and support.

What is Grief?

Grief is a natural response to loss. It can affect your emotions, body, and mind in ways that may feel overwhelming or unfamiliar. You might feel sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief—all are normal. Remember, healing takes time, and it’s okay to seek help along the way.

Immediate Support for Grieving Families

If you’re struggling to cope, these hotlines and resources can help:

  • National Grief Support Hotline: 1-800-445-4808

  • Suicide Hotline (Call or Text): 988

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (24/7 support)

  • SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990

Self-Care During Grief

Taking care of yourself is essential during this time. Here are some tips to help:

  • Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions.

  • Set small, achievable goals each day.

  • Lean on loved ones or trusted friends for support.

  • Consider journaling, meditating, or engaging in activities that bring you peace.

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Resources for Those Grieving

Why grieving loss from the drug epidemic feels different

  • Grieving can feel isolating, but connecting with others who understand your pain can bring comfort and understanding. Here are some resources to support you:

    GriefShare
    Support groups available nationwide to help navigate grief.
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    The Compassionate Friends
    A nonprofit organization offering support to parents, siblings, grandparents, and family members after the death of a child, including losses due to addiction.
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    Phone: 1-877-969-0010

    Grief Recovery Method
    Provides tools and community support to help individuals navigate their grief.
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    GRASP (Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing)
    A national support network offering in-person and online meetings for families who have lost a loved one to substance use.
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    Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL)
    A Christian-based support group offering guidance and emotional support to parents who have lost a child to addiction.
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    Shatterproof
    Provides addiction-specific grief resources to help families cope with their loss.
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    These resources are here to offer community, comfort, and understanding during this challenging time.

    • BetterHelp (Online Grief Counseling)

      • Offers online therapy sessions with licensed therapists specializing in grief and loss, including those who have lost a loved one to addiction.

      • Website: https://www.betterhelp.com/

    • Talkspace (Online Grief Therapy)

      • Provides remote counseling with grief specialists, allowing individuals to receive support from the comfort of their home.

      • Website: https://www.talkspace.com/

    • The Dougy Center

      • Offers resources and support specifically for grieving children, teens, and families after the loss of a loved one.

      • Website: https://www.dougy.org/

    • Cornerstone of Hope

      • A grief counseling center in Columbus, offering individual and group therapy for those who have lost a loved one to overdose or addiction.

      • Address: 1550 Old Henderson Rd Suite E-262, Columbus, OH 43220

      • Website: https://cornerstoneofhope.org/

      • Phone: (614) 824-4285

    • OhioHealth Bereavement Services

    • Mount Carmel Grief Support Services

      • Offers grief counseling and support groups, including specific groups for those who have lost loved ones to substance use.

      • Address: 777 W State St, Columbus, OH 43222

      • Website: https://www.mountcarmelhealth.com/

      • Phone: (614) 234-0200

    • Amethyst, Inc. (Alvis) - Grief and Loss Counseling

      • Offers grief and loss counseling for women and families affected by addiction in Columbus, Ohio.

      • Address: 455 E. Mound St, Columbus, OH 43215

      • Website: https://alvis180.org/amethyst/

      • Phone: (614) 242-1284


    • Modern Loss

      • A website and community providing resources and personal stories about grief, offering support for those navigating the loss of a loved one.

      • Website: https://modernloss.com/

    • Reddit – Grief Support Community