Embracing the Bereavement Program: How to Reach Out When You Need Support

Grief can be isolating, overwhelming, and unpredictable. In the wake of loss, even simple tasks can feel impossible, and asking for help might seem like a burden. But you don’t have to walk this journey alone. Bereavement programs exist for exactly this reason—to provide care, compassion, and connection during one of life’s hardest seasons.

If you’re part of a hospice or healthcare system that offers a bereavement program, you’ve been given a gift: a hand to hold, a voice to listen, a resource when the path feels unclear. Your bereavement coordinator is there not just for immediate grief, but for the long haul. Whether it’s been days, months, or even a year, you’re allowed—and encouraged—to reach out.

What Is a Bereavement Coordinator?

A bereavement coordinator is a trained professional who supports individuals and families after the death of a loved one. They provide grief education, emotional support, resources, referrals, and sometimes access to support groups or counseling services.

Their role is not to rush you through grief or give you all the answers, but to walk beside you as you navigate your own unique journey of loss.

When Should You Reach Out?

There’s no wrong time. Here are some signs it may help to connect with your bereavement coordinator:

• You feel overwhelmed or numb and don’t know where to turn.

• You’re struggling with anger, guilt, confusion, or isolation.

• You need help understanding your grief or explaining it to others (especially children).

• You want to join a support group or talk to someone who understands.

• A milestone, holiday, or anniversary is approaching and you feel unprepared.

• You simply need someone to listen.

Grief changes over time, and you may need support at different stages. That’s why bereavement programs often offer follow-up for up to a year (or longer) after the loss. It’s never too late to reach out.

How to Reach Out

1. Check your hospice or care provider’s materials. Look for a contact name, phone number, or email for the bereavement team. If you’re unsure, call the main number and ask to be connected to the bereavement coordinator.

2. Send a simple message. You don’t need to have the “right words.” Try:

   
   

   • “I’m struggling more than I expected and could use someone to talk to.”

   • “I don’t know if this is something you help with, but I’m having a hard time.”

   • “I think I’m ready to attend a support group or get some resources.”

   
   

3. Ask about what’s available. Coordinators can tell you about:

   
   

   • Individual grief support or counseling

   • Grief support groups (virtual or in-person)

   • Newsletters or mailings with helpful information

   • Memorial services or remembrance events

   
   

Why It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Grief is not something to “get over.” It’s something you learn to live with, and support makes that learning more bearable. Your coordinator is not there to judge or fix you—they’re there to walk with you. Reaching out isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom.

You deserve support. You deserve space to grieve. You deserve connection in a season that can feel so disconnected.

A Final Thought

The bereavement program exists because your loss matters. Your pain matters. And you matter.

If you’ve been thinking about calling but haven’t yet—consider this your gentle encouragement. You don’t have to carry it all alone. Let someone walk beside you.

The first step is simply reaching out. The rest doesn’t have to be done all at once.

You’re not alone. Not now. Not ever.