7 Group therapy activities for grief

Posted by Tim Tarks on March 22nd, 2023

Group therapy activities can be useful for individuals suffering from grief and suffering. Here are some group therapy activities that may be helpful for individuals coping with grief:

1. Sharing stories: Encourage group members to share stories about their loved ones, memories, and experiences of grief. This can help foster a sense of connection and understanding among the group.
2. Creative expression: Provide opportunities for group members to express their feelings of grief through creative activities such as drawing, painting, or writing.
3. Mindfulness meditation: Teach the group mindfulness techniques to help them become more aware of their thoughts and emotions related to grief, and practice accepting these feelings without judgment.
4. Rituals and memorials: Create rituals or memorial activities to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. This can include lighting candles, planting trees, or creating a memory box.
5. Support and validation: Provide a safe and supportive environment for group members to express their feelings of grief, and validate their experiences and emotions.
6. Education and coping strategies: Provide education on the grieving process and coping strategies for managing grief, such as self-care techniques and healthy ways to express emotions.
7. Group activities: Engage the group in activities such as walks, hikes, or other outdoor activities, or group outings to concerts, movies, or other events that may help distract from the grief and foster a sense of social connection.

Remember, everyone's grief journey is unique, and it's important to tailor group therapy activities to the specific needs and goals of the group members. Grief therapy worksheets can be helpful to facilitate these activities. It may also be helpful to incorporate individual therapy and other forms of support, such as grief counseling or support groups, into a comprehensive treatment plan.