August is Grief Awareness Month, a national observance that encourages us to engage with one of life’s most universal, yet most misunderstood, experiences: grief. No matter who we are or where we come from, everyone will experience loss in some form—whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or significant life changes such as job loss or moving away from home. Grief Awareness Month is not only about acknowledging that pain, but also about breaking the silence, reducing stigma, and encouraging compassionate dialogue.

The Purpose Behind Grief Awareness Month

At its heart, Grief Awareness Month is about education and empathy. Grieving is a natural and healthy human process, but our society often struggles to talk about it openly. Many people who are grieving feel alone or pressured to “move on” quickly, which can slow healing and create additional emotional burdens. By dedicating an entire month to this topic, advocates hope to build a collective understanding of grief, making it easier for people to access the support and resources they need without shame or fear of being judged.

What Is Grief, Really?

Grief is not a single emotion, but a complex web of feelings—sadness, anger, guilt, relief, confusion, and even moments of unexpected joy or laughter. It is a deeply personal response to loss, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Grief can affect every part of our lives: our thoughts, bodies, relationships, work, and even our sense of purpose. Some people may experience grief immediately and intensely; for others, it comes in waves or surfaces years later. This individuality can lead to misunderstandings: someone who seems “fine” on the outside may be struggling privately, while others may encounter insensitivity from friends, coworkers, or even family.

Common Myths and Realities

One of the main goals of Grief Awareness Month is busting common myths about the grieving process. For example, many people believe that grief happens in predictable “stages” and ends within a certain time frame. In reality, grief is cyclical, not linear—it may ease over time, but doesn’t simply “go away.” Another myth is that we should keep busy to avoid thinking about our loss. While distraction can sometimes help, avoiding our emotions entirely can actually prolong suffering.

How to Support Yourself or Others

If you are grieving, give yourself permission to feel what you feel, free of expectation or judgment. Self-care—such as rest, healthy nourishment, movement, and connection to others—can make a significant difference, but sometimes professional help is essential. Many counselors and support groups specialize in bereavement, helping people process their loss in a safe environment.

For those supporting a grieving friend or loved one, Grief Awareness Month encourages small but meaningful actions: listening without trying to “fix” things, sharing memories, offering practical help, and checking in regularly, even months after a loss. Sometimes just saying “I’m here for you” or “I can’t imagine how hard this is, but I care” provides much-needed comfort.

Breaking the Silence

One challenge with grief is that it can make us, and those around us, uncomfortable. As a result, many people choose silence over speaking up about their pain. This can reinforce feelings of isolation for the bereaved. By using our voices during Grief Awareness Month—whether on social media, in our communities, or simply at the family dinner table—we can normalize conversations about loss and the need for ongoing support.

Taking Action During Grief Awareness Month

There are many ways to honor Grief Awareness Month, such as sharing resources about healthy grieving, attending workshops or memorial events, or reading/listening to others’ stories. Many organizations offer free talks, virtual support groups, and creative outlets for expressing grief. You can also participate by checking on friends who may be mourning, volunteering with organizations like hospices, or encouraging your workplace, school, or place of worship to offer grief education and support.

Looking Ahead: Hope in Community

Grief never truly leaves us, but with understanding and support, it can become more manageable. Grief Awareness Month reminds us that healing is not about forgetting, but about learning to live with loss as part of our story. When communities acknowledge grief openly, people are less likely to struggle in silence—and more likely to find hope, resilience, and even moments of meaning amid their sorrow.

Let’s use Grief Awareness Month as a reminder to practice compassion: for ourselves, for others, and for all those carrying invisible burdens. Together, we can create a world where no one has to grieve alone.