• Aug 1
• Mental Health Treatment

Grief Awareness Day 2025: Things to Know About Grief

Grief affects us all at some point, and yet, it can feel incredibly isolating. On Grief Awareness Day, we take time to recognize the complexity of grief and offer space for compassion, connection, and healing. 

What Is Grief? 

Grief is a natural emotional response to loss. While it’s most often associated with the death of a loved one, grief can also arise from many other life changes—such as the end of a relationship, a major move, job loss, miscarriage, trauma, or the diagnosis of a serious illness. 

Grief affects everyone differently. It can impact your emotions, thoughts, body, and even your sense of identity or purpose. You might feel sadness, anger, confusion, guilt, loneliness—or nothing at all. Some people experience physical symptoms like fatigue or changes in appetite. All of these responses are valid. 

Understanding grief as a process, rather than a single emotion, can help reduce shame and make space for healing. 

Why Grief Awareness Day Matters 

Grief Awareness Day is a reminder that: 

• Grief is natural and valid. There’s no “right way” to grieve. 

• Talking about grief reduces stigma. When the topic is avoided, individuals can feel more isolated and alone. 

• Education is important. Calling attention to the topic can spread awareness for resources available to manage grief. 

How You Can Support Someone Who’s Grieving 

• Acknowledge their loss, and remind them that their feelings are valid. 

• Be patient. Some days may be harder than others. 

• Help with small tasks. When someone is grieving, everyday tasks like cooking, doing the dishes, or other chores may seem more difficult and overwhelming. Helping your loved one can remove added stressors and allow them to focus on processing their emotions. 

Ways to Manage Grief 

If you’re grieving, help is available and you’re not alone. Here are some ways you can help yourself when processing difficult emotions: 

• Lean on family and friends. They will be able to support you better if they know how you are feeling.  

• Maintaining regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and sleep can increase feelings of stability, which can help when dealing with grief. 

• Get professional help. Talking to a doctor or mental health professional is crucial when grief becomes unmanageable or leads to unhealthy coping mechanisms. 

Help is Available 

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, call 877-505-HOPE.