Bereavement and Loss Training

Bereavement and Loss Training

Loss and bereavement training (also called grief and loss training) is a specialised program that teaches participants how to support those who are experiencing grief and loss, particularly following the death of a loved one. Bereavement and loss training is beneficial for a variety of professionals, including: Healthcare professionals (nurses, physicians, social workers, counselors, etc.).

Bereavement and loss training can also be beneficial for individuals who have recently experienced the death of a loved one. The training can help them to understand the grieving process and to develop coping mechanisms.

If you are interested in the e-learning bereavement and loss course, please click the link.

Course Overview

This grief and loss course provides specialised instruction on supporting those experiencing grief and loss following the death of a loved one.

Build skills in compassionately helping the bereaved through the mourning process physically, psychologically, and spiritually.

Course Outline: Bereavement and Loss Training

This is a level 2 bereavement and loss course. Participants will learn about the different types of bereavement and loss, the grieving process, common grief reactions, and how to provide compassionate support to the bereaved.

1. The stages of dying

This section of the training will cover the different stages of dying, including the physical, emotional, and spiritual changes that occur. Attendees will learn how to support individuals and their families during each stage.

2. Dealing with change

Grief and loss can bring about significant changes in a person’s life.

This section of the training will help attendees understand how to cope with these changes and support others through them.

3. Cultural awareness and adopting a non-judgmental approach

Different cultures have different beliefs and practices surrounding death and dying. It is important for bereavement and loss professionals to be aware of these differences and to adopt a non-judgmental approach. This section of the training will cover cultural diversity and how to respect the beliefs and wishes of individuals and their families.

4. The path way to a good death

A good death is one that is peaceful and dignified.

This section of the training will cover the different aspects of a good death, such as symptom management, spiritual support, and end-of-life care.

5. Duty of care and maintaining privacy, dignity, and respect

Bereavement and loss professionals have a duty of care to their clients. This means providing them with the highest quality of support and respecting their privacy, dignity, and respect.

This section of the training will cover the ethical and legal aspects of bereavement and loss work.

6. Managing the environment

The environment can play a significant role in the grief and loss process.

This section of the training will help attendees learn how to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals and their families.

7. Family and visitors and coping with loss

Family and visitors can play an important role in the grief and loss process.

This section of the training will help attendees learn how to support families and visitors, and how to cope with their own grief and loss.

8. Record keeping of questions and best practice responses

It is important to keep records of questions and best practice responses in bereavement and loss work.

This helps to ensure that individuals and their families are receiving the best possible support. This section of the training will cover record keeping best practices.

9. Maintaining attitude and behavior

Bereavement and loss professionals must maintain a professional attitude and behavior at all times. This means being respectful, compassionate, and empathetic.

This section of the training will cover professional standards and conduct.

Who Should Take This Course?

This bereavement and loss course is designed for anyone who works with or supports the bereaved, including:

• Healthcare professionals
• Social workers
• Counselors
• Hospice and palliative care workers
• Funeral home and cemetery staff
• Faith leaders and chaplains
• Grief support group volunteers
• Educators

Learning Outcomes

After completing our bereavement and loss training course, you will be able to:

• Describe the common stages and manifestations of grief
• Recognise complicated grief requiring referral
• Provide sensitive ongoing bereavement support
• Assist surviving loved ones with post-death tasks
• Inform about memorialisation options and rituals
• Make appropriate community referrals as needed
• Identify grief support resources and groups
• Manage your own feelings when supporting the bereaved

Bereavement and Loss FAQs

Q: How do you teach grief and loss?

A: Teaching grief and loss involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This can be done through formal education, workshops, or training programs. Topics may include understanding the grieving process, communication skills, and practical techniques for supporting individuals experiencing grief. Role-playing and case studies may also be part of the teaching process.

Q: What are 3 things a person can do to help relieve the feelings of grief?

A:

1. Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a grief support group. Sharing feelings with others who understand can provide comfort.
2. Express Emotions: Allow yourself to feel and express emotions, whether through talking, writing, or engaging in creative activities. This can help in processing grief.
3. Self-Care: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Ensure you get enough rest, eat healthily, and engage in activities that bring you comfort and peace. Seeking professional counselling support is also a valuable option.

Q: What exercises are good for grief?

A: Engaging in exercises can be beneficial for coping with grief. Simple activities like walking, jogging, or yoga can help release stress and promote a sense of well-being. Journaling is another effective exercise, allowing individuals to express their emotions. Breathing exercises and mindfulness practices can also provide a calming effect during times of grief.

Q: What is the empty chair technique for grief?

A: The empty chair technique is a therapeutic exercise used in grief counselling. It involves having an individual imagine that the person they have lost is sitting in an empty chair in front of them. This technique allows for an expressive and often cathartic dialogue, providing an opportunity to communicate feelings, memories, and unresolved emotions with the symbolic presence of the loved one. It’s a way to process and express emotions in a therapeutic setting.

Q: How do you explain grief and loss to a child?

A: Explaining grief and loss to a child requires using simple and age-appropriate language. Begin by acknowledging the child’s feelings and creating a safe space for them to express their emotions. Use concrete examples, such as comparing emotions to different colours or explaining that grief is like a rollercoaster with ups and downs. Encourage questions and provide reassurance, emphasising that it’s okay to feel sad or confused.

Q: What is the teaching of the grieving process?

A: Teaching the grieving process involves helping individuals understand the stages of grief and how it varies for each person. Commonly, the grieving process includes stages such as denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Emphasise that these stages are not linear, and people may move back and forth between them. Encouraging open communication, expressing emotions, and seeking support are integral parts of teaching the grieving process.

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