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Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging experience that often leaves individuals feeling overwhelmed, lost and in need of caring support. In this article, we'll explore the role of grief counsellors, the services available for those coping with bereavement, the assistance offered by health professionals and where you can find grief support in NSW and Australia wide..
What is a grief counsellor called?
Grief counsellors, also known as bereavement counsellors or grief therapists, are professionals trained to support individuals coping with the loss of a loved one. These compassionate experts specialise in helping you navigate the emotional rollercoaster that grief often entails. They provide a safe space for you to express your feelings, offering guidance on how to cope with the pain and tools to help you move forward.
How a grief counsellor can help you
Emotional support:
Grief can be an isolating experience and having someone who understands and empathises with your pain can be immensely comforting.
Coping strategies:
Grief counsellors provide practical tools and coping mechanisms to help you manage the intense emotions associated with loss.
Understanding the grieving process:
Each person grieves differently and a grief counsellor can help you comprehend and navigate the various stages of grief.
Healthy expression of grief:
They create a non-judgmental environment where you can express your emotions without fear, helping you avoid bottling up your feelings.
How can a health professional help people with their grief?
Health professionals, including general practitioners, psychologists and social workers can play an important role in supporting individuals dealing with grief.
General Practitioners (GPs): Your GP can offer initial support, assess your mental health and refer you to appropriate grief counselling services. They can also create mental health care plans, allowing individuals to access Medicare-subsidised sessions with psychologists or other mental health professionals.
Psychologists: Psychologists specialise in understanding and treating mental health issues, including grief. They provide personalised therapeutic interventions to help you cope with your emotions.
Social workers: Social workers can assist with practical aspects of grief, such as legal matters, financial concerns and accessing community resources.
Who provides services for grief and bereavement?
In NSW, several organisations and professionals are dedicated to supporting individuals and families through the grieving process.
New South Wales support links
The National Association for Loss and Grief (NALAG) is an independent, not-for-profit registered Charity which was formed after the Granville Train Disaster in 1977. Today, NALAG continues to provide free, confidential, grief and loss support services.
Multicultural Health Communication Service Provides multilingual health information, including about bereavement and grief in NSW.
NSW Government Grief Support Information and support for people with cancer and their carers. Service NSW's Savings Finder can help you find rebates and vouchers to help with the cost of living.
The Compassionate Friends NSW | Grieving. Healing. Growing. Are a not for profit organisation that provides peer support to bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents after the tragic loss of a child.
RELATED ARTICLE: How do you survive grief on holidays?
National grief support links
Beyond Blue provides Australians with information and support to improve their mental health. Call 1300 22 46 36 or visit beyondblue.org.au for more information.
Lifeline Australia provides Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24-hour crisis support. Call 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au for more information.
GriefLine listens, cares and supports people experiencing loss and grief, at any stage in life. Call 1300 845 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
MensLine Australia is a professional telephone and online support and information service for Australian men. Call 1300 78 99 78, 24 hours / 7 days a week.
Kids Helpline is a free 24/7, confidential and private counselling service Australia wide specifically for children and young people aged 5 to 25 years. Call 1800 55 1800.
Life Supports Counselling provides Australians with experienced counsellors & psychologists in their local area Australia-wide. Call 1300 735
Private grief counsellors
Explore directories like the Australian Counselling Association to find private grief counsellors in your area. Hospice and palliative care service links
Palliative Care Australia: Focuses on providing care for individuals with life-limiting illnesses and offers support for their families during and after the bereavement period.
Navigating grief is a unique and personal journey and seeking support is a brave and important step towards healing. Whether through the comforting words of a grief counselor, the understanding of a health professional or the shared experiences of a support group, it's important to remember that help is always available.
