text that reads inside hospice muskoka on top of pastel brush strokes

SUMMER 2026 EDITION

red heart

Stories Of The Heart

red heart

Image: a children's grief group led by a volunteer

Grief Support Groups: What Are They Really Like? 

FAQs answered by Grace Donaldson, Social Worker

If you have ever considered joining a grief support group, you may have wondered what it’s actually like. It is completely normal to feel unsure about attending for the first time. We hear many of the same questions from people who are thinking about joining, so we wanted to share a few answers. 


Do I have to share my story? 

No. Sharing is always your choice. Many people come to their first session simply to listen, and that’s perfectly okay. You are welcome to participate in whatever way feels most comfortable.

 

What can I expect on my first day? 

Your first session is an opportunity to meet others who are grieving, learn a little about the group, and begin to feel more comfortable in the space. There is no expectation that you have to know what to say or how to participate. You can simply come as you are. 


How can a grief support group help me? 

Above all, grief support groups remind us that we don’t have to navigate grief alone. Peer support can help people feel less isolated and more understood. Participants often gain a greater understanding of grief, learn new coping strategies, and find reassurance in connecting with others who have experienced a similar loss. 

What informs the content of the programs? 

Much of our curriculum is shaped by the topics, questions, and experiences we hear most often from the individuals and families we support. This helps us create sessions that are practical, relevant, and responsive to the needs of our community. Some groups are facilitated by experienced, trained volunteers, while others are led by our social worker. 


What if I’m hesitant to attend? 

It’s okay to feel unsure. Walking into a new group can feel intimidating, especially when you’re already carrying the weight of grief. You don’t need to be ready to share or have everything figured out. Sometimes, simply showing up and listening can be a meaningful first step. 


Our grief support groups welcome adults who are grieving a death-related loss, and we also offer groups specifically for children. Whether your loss was recent or many years ago, you are welcome. 


If you would like to learn more about the programs we offer and how we support you through grief, please visit our website.


Don't Miss This Video

a cartoon bear sitting on a log looking sad

How to help a grieving friend — Megan Devine & Refuge in Grief


Devine explains how acknowledgement is the best approach when supporting someone who is grieving, and why looking on the bright side often hinders the healing process.


Watch the video

Celebrate With Us

a group of people standing together holding an award

Hospice Muskoka Achieves Full Accreditation from HPCO


The HPCO has fully accredited our In-Home Hospice, Hospice Residence and Grief & Bereavement programs. We are proud to have passed their rigorous standards, ensuring the consistent delivery of our high-quality hospice palliative care.

Words From The Heart

opening quotation mark

We are so grateful for your unlimited kindness and generosity.

opening quotation mark

Our family will be forever grateful to the professional and compassionate team who cared for John. You have managed to leave us all with fond memories of his gentle passing.

– Words from family members of former residents of Andy's House

hospicemuskoka.com

Facebook  Instagram