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05/05/2021 12:00 AMNorth Branford Congregational Church will again be offering a bereavement support group for anyone struggling with the loss of a loved one. The group will meet on Thursdays, 7 - 8:30 p.m., from May 13 until June 17, in the chapel adjacent to the sanctuary, 1680 Foxon Road (Route 80), North Branford.
"Sorrow Into The Light: A Place to Grieve and to Heal" will be led by Gerry Borgerson, a retired Marriage and Family Therapist and Tracy Kennedy.
"Our church family recognizes the pain and sorrow felt by the loss of a loved one, and wanted to again give folks a safe place to share their feelings," according to Borgerson and Kennedy. "Sharing your struggles is a way that can help begin the healing process. As you interact with those in our group, all can benefit from the experience, not only helping you through this difficult time, but also bringing comfort to others as well. For we must always remember that no matter what our struggles we are never alone!"
Grief is the natural response to the death of a loved one, displayed in different ways based on the person grieving and that person's circumstances. As such, grief and mourning are unique in the characteristics and course for each individual. The relationship with the person who died and the quality of that relationship will significantly impact how a child or adult will grieve. Each member of the same family will grieve the death differently because of his or her unique relationship with the person who died and his or her own personality structure.
When grief goes unresolved, the impact and after effects are likely to be devastating. Unattended grief often results in chronic depression, withdrawal, aggression, social anxiety, failing relationships, declining job/school performance, eating disorders, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and much more.
"Despite the uniqueness of every situation, we can nevertheless find comfort and support from others who have recently experienced loss, simply by being there and listening, and together can help each other heal. We invite and encourage you to begin this journey with us," Borgerson and Kennedy concluded.
For more information and to register, please feel free to call Gerry Borgerson at (203) 483-1116 or Tracy Kennedy at (203) 500-0104.