Death is one of the few things certain in life but dealing with it can be a painful process.

 

To that end, the Forrest General Hospice has formed a bereavement support group where persons dealing with the loss of a loved one can share their experience with others.

 

Scott Downes brings 32-years of pastoral experience to the group as its coordinator.

 

“Anyone who has lost a loved one is welcome to come and join us,” Downes said. “We usually meet for an hour and a half and it’s just a place where we can talk and say what’s on your heart.”

 

Meetings typical begin with introductions before attendees share their stories.

 

“One may say something that might help another in the group,” he said noting that stories shared in the group do not leave the meeting room.

 

Downes said there are some who “pour their hearts out” while others take some time to finally open up about their grief.

 

“Everyone grieves differently,” he said. “They all have one thing in common – they have lost a loved one. But, they may have lost a spouse and some have lost their children. Those are different circumstances.”

 

Downes said the most common problem among those who grieve is being able to “let go.”

 

“There is no time frame on grief,” he said. “Some can move on in a month or so and some take much longer as they think about things like having to clean out a closet.”

 

He said there is one way to help speed the healing process.

 

“Coming to a support group like ours,” Downes said. “Some people want to just stay inside. Don’t just sit around and not get your grief out. Our group is an outlet for that, and a lot of churches are willing and able to give plenty of support.”

 

The group meets every third Tuesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. in the Highland Community Hospital private dining room.

 

More information is available by calling 601-358-0025 or 1-800-844-8797.