Meeting Format

What We Do In Support Groups

• Connect with others with similar lived experiences

• Share without experiencing shame or judgment

• Explore ways of coping and healing

Guidelines for Participating

• Avoid giving advice. If someone asks for advice and you want to respond, share your lived experience using "I" statements.

• Share the air. Be mindful of how much time you take so everyone has an equal opportunity to share. 

• Be present. But if you feel the need to leave at any time, please feel welcome to do so. 

• Maintain confidentiality. What’s shared in the group stays in the group. 

• 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.

• Don't share graphic details. This can activate strong emotional reactions in others.

For suicide loss:

• Don't share lethal methods.

• Use appropriate language. When we talk about suicide, we avoid saying ‘committed suicide’ which carries a negative judgment and doesn't reflect the complexities of suicide. Examples of preferred language are ‘suicide death’, ‘died by suicide’, ‘took their life', or ‘died from a mental health condition'.

Other Guidelines

If you're struggling with suicidal thoughts, please let us know. We’re here to talk after the meeting and, if needed, we’ll help you receive immediate support through dialing 988.

This is a peer-led group, not professional therapy. We encourage seeking help from a qualified therapist or counselor—and we’re happy to assist with referrals.

Zoom Meetings Only

Because this is a support group centered on grief and healing, we take care to ensure that everyone who joins is here for the right reasons and feels safe. When someone enters the Zoom waiting room, one of our facilitators will briefly speak with them one-on-one before admitting them to the main group. This helps us confirm they’re aware of the group’s purpose, understand our guidelines, and feel comfortable joining. It’s not an interview—it’s simply a warm check-in to make sure we’re creating a safe, respectful space for everyone.