National Grief Awareness Day was founded in 2014 and is recognized annually on August 30. The day is dedicated to “raising awareness of the myriad ways in which individuals cope with loss,” and serves as a reminder for people to support those we know who are grieving.
Grief touches everyone at some point in life. For some, it’s a daily battle because grief never leaves. It never takes a holiday, a sick day, or a vacation. It’s present, every day. National Grief Awareness Day offers resources to those going through personal loss and raises awareness about the grieving process and the time it takes for a person to heal from a tragic loss. The timeline is different for everyone and isn’t just a straight line taking a person from loss directly to acceptance. No one just “gets over” losing someone.
If you haven’t lost someone in your life, the sad truth is that you will. Whether it’s a parent, spouse, friend, coworker, or acquaintance, we will all experience loss and the grief that follows. National Grief Awareness Day encourages and seeks to educate the public on the facts about grief.
On this day, you can support those in your life who are grieving, engage in self-care if you are grieving, and help spark discussion among those in your sphere of influence by posting with the hashtag #NationalGriefAwarenessDay.
Learning to manage your grief can help prevent it from escalating into more serious issues, like depression and suicidal ideation. If your child or someone you love is struggling with depression or thinking about suicide, get help now.
The Jason Foundation is a nationally recognized leader in youth suicide awareness and prevention offering numerous resources outlining the signs of concern for suicide as well as ways to help friends and loved ones when they show these signs. Additionally, The Jason Foundation strives to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide.
Through its awareness campaign, #IWONTBESILENT, JFI encourages conversations so that no one feels they have to suffer in silence. Creating an environment of openness, where people of all ages feel comfortable confiding in others about their struggles can help prevent unnecessary tragedies.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide, help is available. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Trained mental health professionals are ready to listen and provide resources.
Visit their website and click Locations to find the nearest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office.
