Grieving is hard, but you’re not alone.

Grief and bereavement are part of our human existence, and they affect each of us differently.

Losing a loved one to substance use disorder is a painful experience that many people go through but few talk about. Stigma makes this pain worse and can leave families and individuals feeling alone.

For this reason, we created the National Addiction Memorial, a digital space offering families a safe outlet to pay tribute to their loved ones where stories are shared, and community begins. As we reflect on the holiday season, let's be reminded of the people who matter to us, and that grieving is normal and should not be rushed.

Grieving Addiction Loss

Grief is a profound response that comes from the deep connections, care, and love we have for others. It reflects the bonds we’ve formed and the impact those relationships have had on our lives.  The grief that follows an addiction-related death is complex. An array of emotions could be coupled with sadness. Some families may feel guilt, anger, or even relief that their loved one is no longer suffering. At times, grief is enduring and ever-changing.

The holiday season is especially hard on some individuals and for some, grief is a prolonged experience. If help is not received in time, grief can cause them to get sick, mentally and physically.  When we share our experience of addiction with others, it permits them to open up about their feelings and seek support.

Memorializing Matters in Grief

Memorializing a loved one honors their memory and allows their legacy to live on. Beyond remembrance, it’s a step toward moving forward. It could be a cathartic experience where people can write about their feelings and what their loved ones meant to them.

The National Addiction Memorial is a place where people can find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their grief. It is also a reminder of the needs that still exist to help save lives. 

Building Community

Healing from loss varies between cultures, religions, and personal lifestyles.

More often than not, grief is a collective effort. The presence of memorials, support groups, therapy, and events fosters empathy, reduces isolation, and provides the necessary tools to move forward. If you are a friend or family member supporting someone through grief, offer reassurance that they are not alone.

Help them locate a support group, or therapist, or get them involved in an activity. Encourage them to create new family traditions where they can still commemorate their loved ones. Most importantly, give them the space to feel and sit with their thoughts, and to rest.

Healing Through Creativity

Many people look for ways to cope with their grief and some use creativity as an important part of their healing process. Activities like reading, writing, drawing, sculpting, hiking, swimming, setting goals, or cooking are some of the many ways people use to cope. It's equally important for people to do things on their timeline.

Healing from grief cannot be rushed. What is helpful is for people to remain curious, try new things, seek support, and be open to new opportunities that help them connect with others and find hope for the future.

Resources to Support Grief and Healing

If you or someone you know is grieving the loss of a loved one to addiction, these resources can provide comfort and guidance:

• Shatterproof’s National Addiction Memorial: Create a lasting tribute to your loved one, ensuring their memory is preserved and celebrated.

• The Grief Café: Gatherings to discuss and navigate through grief.

• Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing (GRASP): A network of support groups tailored for people coping with addiction-related loss.

• Sesame Street Workshop: Interactive experiences to help children understand grief.

• For additional information, please visit our resources section.

Join the Movement

Visit Shatterproof’s National Addiction Memorial to write or read tributes that celebrate the lives of those taken too soon and connect with stories that resonate with your journey.

Together, we can ensure their legacies are not forgotten and work toward a society that offers more compassion and understanding. Every life taken by substance use disorder matters and their stories deserve to be told. Tell yours today.