Support Group Meeting Format

Meeting Format

• Opening prayer (by a volunteer)

• Guidelines for participating (see below)

• Brief introductions: each person shares their name, where they live, their loved one’s name, their picture, their relationship, and when their loved one passed

• Reading and group discussion of the meeting topic

• Discussion of other topics or questions raised by from individuals in attendance

• Individual sharing in a round robin fashion

• Closing prayer (by a volunteer)

Guidelines for Participating

• Speak one at a time, avoiding interrupting when someone is talking.

• Be mindful of how much time you take when sharing, allowing time for other group members to share. 

• Refrain from giving advice unless someone asks for it, and if so share what works for you or has worked for you.

• Feel free to cry; your tears are welcome. You don’t need to apologize for them.

• Feel free to laugh, laughter is welcome too, it’s not disrespecting our loved ones.

• Keep what you see and hear confidential to make this a safe place to share. 

• If you feel the need to leave at any time, please feel welcome to do so. 

• When we talk about suicide, we avoid saying ‘committed suicide’ which carries a negative judgment and doesn't reflect the complexities and underlying factors associated with suicide. Examples of preferred language today are ‘suicide death’, ‘died by suicide’, ‘took their life', or ‘died from a mental illness’.

• When it's time for the individual sharing portion of the meeting, feel free to talk about your story, your loved one's story, any struggles you are experiencing, any tender mercies or miracles you are experiencing, or whatever you feel inspired to share with the group. 

• When talking about your loved one who has passed, please refrain from including graphic details or the lethal method used, which can evoke negative emotional reactions in others.

• When we have a virtual meeting, we encourage everyone to turn on their cameras. Seeing everyone's faces helps us feel more connected to one another and reduces feelings of isolation that are common in grief.