Grief Support in Berks County, PA

The grief process can be a rollercoaster of emotions, but you aren’t alone.

What Is Grief?

Grief is a natural and expected emotional response to loss. The grief process can be caused by the death of a loved one or by receiving a terminal diagnosis. Those experiencing grief may feel shocked, numb, sad, angry, guilty, or helpless. They may be in denial. The symptoms associated with grief can feel uncomfortable and hard to handle on your own. Here are some common symptoms:

• Sleep: Grief can disrupt sleep patterns, sometimes making it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. It can cause oversleeping, too. Good sleep habits to practice include a consistent, calming nighttime routine. This may include reading a book before bed, taking a bath, or doing breathing exercises.
• Fatigue: Grief can also contribute to fatigue and overall energy levels. Sleep problems exacerbate this. Short walks, connecting with loved ones, and support groups are some options to help with your energy levels during the day.
• Inflammation: Grief is linked to increased inflammation, which can play a role in heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, asthma, and cancer. Exercise and healthy eating habits can help with this.
• Anxiety & Stress: During the grieving process, the body may release more cortisol than usual into the bloodstream. This can increase feelings of stress and increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. If you’re feeling excessive anxiety and stress for a prolonged period of time, consider speaking with a mental health professional.

Grief can also cause tightness in the chest, nausea, dizziness, headaches, and other uncomfortable physical symptoms.

How Can I Cope With Grief?

If you’re struggling with grief, here are some things to keep in mind to help you prioritize self-care:

• Check in with your doctor, especially if you have any new health concerns.
• Exercise as regularly as you can, eat a nutritious diet, and get enough sleep.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
• Make plans with loved ones, those who share similar interests, or those in your faith community.
• Remember that the grieving process can take time.
• If possible, postpone any major life decisions until you’re feeling better.

Is Grief Support A Part of Hospice Care?

Grief support is an important part of hospice care, a specialized end-of-life service. Hospice prioritizes patients’ quality of life through pain management, symptom control, and emotional support. This type of care may benefit those impacted by conditions like:

• Cancer
• Dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Strokes

Hospice care professionals may provide bereavement support, including grief counseling, to the hospice patient and their loved ones. Sometimes, this service is also available to those grieving loved ones who were not in hospice.

Where Can I Find Grief Support In Berks County?

If you’re looking for support in the area, there are professionals ready to help. Here are some organizations that can assist:

The Greater Reading Mental Health Alliance promotes mental health education and wellness while providing our community with advocacy. They offer grief support groups like:

• Grief Support of Widows & Widowers: The first or second Monday of each month from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. at 1234 Penn Ave, Wyomissing, PA 19610.
• Grief Support Group: The second Tuesday of each month from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Clear Water Wellness (4 Park Plaza, Wyomissing, PA 19610).

Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing (GRASP) is a non-profit organization providing a safe, non-judgmental forum for people grieving the loss of a loved one due to substance use. The Berks County GRASP Chapter meets in Bernville, PA – you can contact them for the exact location.

• Berks County GRASP Chapter Meetings: The second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in Bernville, PA

In-Home Care Support

Our team at Griswold is here to provide personal care, homemaking, companionship, and other support to those with chronic conditions, illnesses, and injuries. Our Caregivers are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones, whether you need dementia care support for a senior with Alzheimer’s, or you’re looking for respite care for a break for yourself. We also offer around-the-clock options, including overnight, live-in, and 24-hour care. Give us a call to learn more!