A multitude of emotions come our way when grieving – many of which are new and overwhelming. Grief is more than sadness – and the journey never truly ends, but we slowly learn to live through it.
Everyone’s experience is different, but no one should feel they lack support after a loss. At Dash Monument, we’re often meeting our customers during the hardest chapter of their lives.
Mourning shows up in many different ways, and sometimes it’s not obvious to the person that is feeling those emotions that the two are connected. Anger, guilt, numbness, physical pain – all are common responses to loss.
How can grief manifest, and where can you find help?
Emotional shifts: Irritability, anxiety, depression, or feelings of guilt. The common “five stages of grief” are not always linear, and can repeat.
Cognitive changes: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or feeling disconnected from reality.
Physical symptoms: Fatigue, headaches, body aches, or changes in sleep and appetite.
Behavioral changes: Withdrawing from social activities, avoiding reminders of the loved one, or overworking to stay distracted.
Grief support groups create space to share, connect, and heal with others who truly understand. In a support group, you can find connections, learn coping skills from professionals, have your experiences validated, and process emotions – all in a safe, non-judgemental space.
Some groups are general, while others focus on specific kinds of loss, such as the death of a spouse, parent, or child. Whether in-person or virtual, these groups remind us that we aren’t the only ones trying to make sense of grief, though often it feels the opposite.
Where can I go in Kansas City?
1. Solace House (Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care) – A nurturing grief center offering therapeutic group sessions and individual counseling for children, teens, and adults — regardless of hospice involvement kchospice.org.
2. St. Luke’s Hospice Bereavement Group – Grief support groups led by bereavement coordinators, open to anyone — not restricted to St. Luke’s patients
3. Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care (General Bereavement) – Ongoing grief support groups, workshops, educational events, and individual counseling — plus supportive aftercare following a loss
4. Heartland Hospice – Comprehensive emotional and bereavement support, including grief counseling for families up to a year after loss
Grief can feel isolating, but support is available. Reaching out to a group can help ease the weight and remind you you’re seen, heard, and cared for.
At Dash Monument, we are honored to assist families by crafting lasting memorials and by pointing you toward the compassionate care you deserve. If you’re in Kansas City—or know someone who is—take heart: help is here, and healing is possible.
