CMHA Grey Bruce observes National Grief and Bereavement Day

Nov 18, 2025

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. 

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. 

A full guide to practically support someone who is grieving, What Can I Say or Do from CMHA Bereavement Services, can be found at https://cmhabereavement.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/What-Can-I-Say-or-Do.pdf