Grief support group
Principles of grief support groups
A grief support group is a facilitated peer support group that brings together people who have experienced loss. The basic idea is that shared experience connects and comforts in a way that no other form of support can match. When a grieving person hears another describe similar feelings – yearning, guilt, anger, emptiness – they understand that they are not alone. This experience normalises grief and reduces the feeling of isolation.
The key principles of a grief support group are confidentiality, voluntariness, respect and equality. What is shared in the group stays in the group. No one has to speak if they do not wish to. Everyone's grief is equally valuable regardless of the nature or timing of the loss. The facilitator ensures a safe atmosphere and that the group does not turn into an advice-giving session.
Types of grief support groups
Various types of grief support groups operate in Finland. General grief groups are intended for all who have experienced loss. Targeted groups include groups for parents who have lost a child (KAPY ry), groups for those who have lost a spouse, groups for those who have lost someone to suicide (Surunauha ry) and groups for children and young people. There are also groups for special situations, such as those who have experienced a miscarriage or stillbirth.
Group formats vary. A closed group meets for a set period, typically 6–10 sessions, and new participants are not accepted mid-cycle. An open group is ongoing, and people can join at any time. Online grief groups are available, particularly for broader target groups such as English speakers or those who have experienced a rare type of loss.
Benefits and research evidence
Studies show that participation in grief support groups reduces grief symptoms, loneliness and depression. Peer support helps particularly when the immediate circle does not understand the duration or intensity of the grief. In the group, the grieving person can hear different coping strategies and see that grief work progresses, albeit slowly. The social aspect of the group – new relationships and a sense of belonging – also supports recovery.
However, a grief support group is not suitable for everyone. If the grieving person suffers from severe depression, an anxiety disorder or complicated grief, individual professional therapy is the primary form of support. The group facilitator assesses the participant's suitability and can direct them to other services if needed.
Finding a grief support group in Finland
Grief support groups are organised by many parties. Evangelical Lutheran Church parishes are the largest single organiser: diaconal workers facilitate grief groups in almost all parishes. MIELI Mental Health Finland offers peer support groups and trains volunteer facilitators. Surunauha ry focuses on those who have experienced suicide bereavement, and KAPY ry supports child death families. Health centre mental health services and hospital social workers can direct people to a suitable group. Information can also be found on parish or organisation websites.
Frequently asked questions
Who is a grief support group suitable for?
A grief support group is suitable for anyone who has lost a loved one and feels they would benefit from peer support. There are different groups: general grief groups for all who have experienced loss, for parents who have lost a child, for those who have lost a spouse, for those who have lost someone to suicide and for children and young people. Participation is voluntary, and the time since the loss does not matter.
How does a grief support group work in practice?
A grief support group typically meets once a week or fortnight for 1.5–2 hours, for a total of 6–10 sessions. The group is led by a trained facilitator, such as a diaconal worker, psychologist or peer facilitator. At meetings, participants share experiences, listen to others and discuss grief themes such as yearning, memories, guilt and coping with daily life. Confidentiality is an absolute rule.
Where can you find a grief support group?
Grief support groups are organised by Evangelical Lutheran Church parishes, MIELI Mental Health Finland, the Finnish Red Cross, Surunauha ry (for those who have lost someone to suicide), KAPY ry (support for child death families) and health centre mental health services. Information can be found on parish websites, organisations' service searches and from healthcare professionals.
Is a grief support group therapy?
A grief support group is not therapy, but it is therapeutic. Peer support is based on shared experience, not a professional care relationship. If the grieving person needs individual professional help, the group facilitator can direct them to therapy services. Many participate in a grief group while also attending therapy – these forms of support complement each other.
Related terms
A psychological process through which a person processes loss and adjusts to life without the deceased.
A gathering after the funeral service where the deceased is remembered. Often held in parish facilities or a restaurant.
A prolonged and intense grief state that significantly impairs everyday life and has been recognised as a distinct disorder in the ICD-11 classification.
An informal gathering where participants discuss death-related topics openly over coffee and cake.
Read also
Comprehensive guide to grief support services in Finland: crisis helpline, peer support groups, parish and organisation support for the bereaved.
Recovering from grief: the differences between natural grief and complicated grief, signs of recovery, and when to seek professional help.
Guide to complicated grief: symptoms of prolonged grief, differences from normal grief, risk factors, treatment options and when to seek help.