Grief & Loss For Direct Service Providers

Grief is one of the most shared universal human experiences, and at the same time a truly unique personal experience. Grief is a natural emotional, somatic response to all kinds of loss, including but not limited to the death of someone. Grief can impact the physical, cognitive and spiritual realms of life. There are many different kinds of grief and many different ways people experience their grief. How one processes grief can often be influenced by culture and at times those around us. Direct Service Providers (DSPs) working in the overdose crisis are in a unique position often faced with multiple ongoing types of grief and loss. This workshop will explore this unique, shared experience of grief while providing education, resources, tips and tools for tending to grief.

After this workshop participants will be able to:

• Define different types of grief and loss, especially kinds experienced in DSP work
• Understand a brief history of death and dying in the US and how this influenced grieving culture
• Identify what grief can look or feel like in themselves and others
• Learn ways to support themselves and others in their grief
• Remember resources for grief peer support for DSPs