Grief is a universal experience, impacting individuals regardless of age, and its effects on mental health can be profound. In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael delves into this sensitive topic with Susana Calley, a licensed clinical social worker and the director at the Center for Hope and Healing under the Blue Ridge Hospice umbrella.

Throughout the year-long series, Mental Health Mondays, Janet has focused on various mental health issues. This episode zeroes in on grief, exploring its impact on both adults and children. Susana emphasizes that grief does not discriminate by age; both young and old are susceptible to its effects. The discussion uncovers important aspects of grief and the necessary support systems for those going through it.

Susana highlights the wide range of grief support services offered by Blue Ridge Hospice, which are available to anyone in the community, not just those directly associated with hospice care. These services include individual and family counseling, specialized groups, and camps dedicated to helping those in grief. One of the key takeaways is the importance of normalizing grief and providing a stable, nurturing environment for children dealing with loss.

A major revelation for many is that Blue Ridge Hospice supports anyone who has experienced a loss, regardless of the circumstances. Susana notes that almost half of the individuals who seek counseling or group support are community members with no prior connection to hospice care.

Grief support can take many forms, from individual counseling to group sessions that offer communal comfort and shared experiences. Susana explains the value of groups where individuals can meet others who have undergone similar experiences, thereby reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of community.

One topic that stands out in the conversation is the misconception about the stages of grief. Susana clarifies that these stages are not a one-size-fits-all process and have largely been debunked. Grief is highly individualized, influenced by various factors such as the relationship with the deceased and personal coping mechanisms.

Understanding and addressing untreated or prolonged grief is crucial. Susana points out that persistent grief can lead to more serious mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or substance misuse. Recognizing these signs early and seeking appropriate counseling can make a significant difference.

For those uncertain about how to support someone in grief, Susana offers practical advice: be honest, listen, and ask about the loved one. Avoid clichéd responses that can invalidate the griever's experience.

The conversation also delves into children's grief, stressing that their process can differ significantly from adults and requires careful attention. Blue Ridge Hospice offers specialized services for children, including an annual camp and innovative programs like 'Adventures Through Grief,' which uses tabletop role-playing games to help teenagers process their loss.

Susana stresses the importance of clear communication with children about death, offering strategies on how to approach the topic without causing additional fear or confusion.

The Center for Hope and Healing plays a vital role in the community by providing resources and support for those dealing with grief. Their offerings include workshops, educational programs, and various counseling options available across different regions, making their support accessible to a broad audience.

Susana also mentions an upcoming webcast focused on family dynamics and grief, aimed at professionals who support young people dealing with loss. This event highlights the need for strategic and sensitive approaches to grief within families.

Wrapping up the conversation, Janet and Susana emphasize the exhaustive reach of Blue Ridge Hospice's services, which extend beyond Winchester and Frederick County to include several other areas. Those seeking support are encouraged to visit the Blue Ridge Hospice website for more information on available resources and how to connect with grief counseling services.

For more details on their services and upcoming events, visit BlueRidgeHospice.org. The conversation ends on a hopeful note, encouraging anyone affected by grief to seek the support they need and reminding listeners that they are not alone in their journey.