Grief is a universal experience, yet it can feel deeply personal and isolating. National Grief and Bereavement Day is an opportunity to remind communities across Ontario that grief is a natural, human response to loss and that no one should have to navigate it alone. 

Grief describes the internal experience of loss. It includes the emotions, thoughts and physical responses that follow the death of someone meaningful. Bereavement is a little different. It’s the period of adjustment after that loss. It’s important to remember that there is no “right” way to grieve and no timeline for how long it lasts. The process is lifelong, evolving as people move through milestones, anniversaries and daily life without their loved one. 

While many people receive strong support in the first weeks and months following a death, that support often fades as time passes. But grief doesn’t follow a schedule. Reaching out later (say in the months, years and anniversaries that follow) matters just as much. 

Below are practical ways to support someone who is grieving, adapted from What Can I Say or Do? (CMHA Bereavement Services). The full guide is available at: https://cmhabereavement.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/What-Can-I-Say-or-Do.pdf 

Ways to Support Someone Who Is Grieving 

Reach out (even when it feels late). 
People often hesitate to ask for help after the first few months, even though their grief remains. A simple check-in can be meaningful, especially leading up to birthdays, holidays, and other meaningful dates. Grief is lifelong; support can be too. 

Be with the person in their grief. 
You don’t need perfect words. Presence matters more than solutions. Sit with them, listen, and let them share memories or emotions openly. Avoid correcting, soothing, or trying to fix. Being with someone in their discomfort is hard, but it helps them feel seen, validated, and safe. 

Avoid problem-solving and “fixing.” 
The urge to remove someone’s pain comes from compassion, but trying to ease or override their emotions can unintentionally interrupt their mourning process. Allowing space for grief is part of healing. 

Helpful things you can say: 

• “I’m sorry you’re going through this.” 

• “I know I don’t know how this feels, but I’m here for you.” 

• “You can talk to me about [name] whenever you want.” 

• “I’ve been thinking about you.” 

• Share a positive memory of the person who died. 

When someone is grieving, you may worry about saying the wrong thing. That worry usually comes from care and empathy. But silence can feel like avoidance. Reaching out—whether with words or quiet presence—gives someone space to express their grief and supports their healing in a meaningful way. 

Local Supports

Parry Sound

FREE GROUP FOR ADULTS GRIEVING THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE

Join Hospice West Parry Sound in a safe, casual environment with others who are grieving. You can share ideas, receive support, make new friends, or simply be present.

WHEN: Every Tuesday, 11:00am–12:00pm
WHERE: West Parry Sound Health Centre, Healing Room, First Floor
CONTACT: 705-746-4540 ext. 1416
PROGRAM: Adult grief support group, open group format

More local supports:

• CMHA MPS Crisis Line (24/7): 1-800-461-5424
• CMHA Parry Sound Office: 705-746-4264

Huntsville & Sundridge

Adult Grief & Bereavement Programs – Hospice Huntsville

FREE GRIEF SUPPORT PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS, CHILDREN & TEENS

Hospice Huntsville offers a variety of structured grief supports led by trained facilitators. Programs run multiple times per year.

PROGRAMS INCLUDE:

• 7-week Adult Bereavement Group (Spring & Fall)
• Children’s 6-week Grief Group
• Teen Grief Support
• One-to-One Grief Companioning (adults)

CONTACT:
Jamie Nguyen, Grief & Bereavement Coordinator
705-789-6878 ext. 200
grief@hospicehuntsville.com

LOCATIONS:

• Hospice Huntsville Community Room, Huntsville
• Outreach available in the North Muskoka/Sundridge region

More local supports:

• CMHA Huntsville Office: 705-789-8891
• CMHA Sundridge Office: 705-384-5392

Bracebridge & Gravenhurst

Grief Support Programs – Hospice Muskoka

FREE SPECIALIZED GRIEF GROUPS FOR ALL AGES

Hospice Muskoka offers a wide range of grief supports for individuals and families.

PROGRAMS INCLUDE:

• Walking Group for Grief
• Writing for Grief
• Supper Club
• Yoga for Grief
• Art for Grief
• Family Grief Group
• Children’s Grief Group
• Life After Loss
• Spousal/Partner Loss (55+)
• Spousal Loss (Ages 30–55)
• MAiD Loss Support Group
• Individual Grief Counselling

CONTACT:
Email: intake@hospicemuskoka.com
Phone: 705-204-CARE (2273)
LOCATIONS: Bracebridge, Gravenhurst & Muskoka Lakes community sites

More local supports:

• CMHA Bracebridge Office: 705-645-2262
• CMHA Gravenhurst Office: 705-687-1435

Crisis Numbers & Immediate Support

• CMHA MPS Crisis Line (24/7): 1-800-461-5424
• 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (24/7)
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868