National Men In Grief Day
Every year over 450,000 men suffer the death of spouse or partner. Even more men must deal with the death of a parent, sibling, child, or a grandchild. For many reasons these men suffer and grieve in isolation and loneliness.
“National Men In Grief Day”
is designed to raise awareness of this situation. Men in our culture are expected to be strong, resilient, and able to cope on their own. Society expects them to accept the death of a loved one and move on. We do not admit that men should grieve leaving them alone to suffer in silence. The National Widowers’ Organization and our Men’s Grief Network, declared this special day on May 30. It is designed to raise public awareness about a problem which is largely unrecognized and scarcely addressed.
Use this day to think about those men who had a significant person die and how they coped with that death. Everyone knows someone who experienced the death of a spouse/partner, parent, sibling, friend, child, or a grandchild. If you feel they are suffering with their grief in silence reach out and let them know they are not alone.
Here are some suggestions for ways you can support a grieving man:
- Let him know that you are thinking about him.
- Call or arrange to visit him; although you won’t be able to fix the situation, your presence is important.
- Suggest spending part of the day together reminiscing and sharing memories; don’t be afraid to talk about the deceased, although it might make him sadder.
- Offer to accompany him to the cemetery if he wishes.
- Offer your gift of presence and listen-listen-listen.
This is how you can make a tax-deductible financial contribution to the
Men’s Grief Network, as it grows with the growing number of bereaved men.
SUPPORTERS
