Just as each person is unique, how we grieve differs from person to person. For example, writing a letter or keeping a diary can help some people deal with their grief. With this in mind, our grief counselors created a writing workshop for “our” families which takes place on a weekly basis.
In a small group and in the protected setting of the writing workshop, the point is not to produce the “perfect” text, but instead to learn different writing techniques, especially creative writing. The idea is for people to be curious and open in trying something new, and to explore what they are feeling inside.
Writing Workshop
Put words to feelings
In various creative exercises, participants are encouraged to find words for their grief, memories, mood or new perspectives and to put these on paper. The focus is always on perception and finding words for – and ways to express – their current emotional state as well as recognizing their own sources of strength and resources to ultimately become more resilient.
During this creative process, our grief counselors get into conversations with the parents and find out what is going through their mind at present.
This method also works well with children. Together with painted pictures or stickers, it can help them process what they have experienced in a playful and creative way.
Occasionally, participants are encouraged to read their short texts or poems out loud to each other, but only if they want to. At the end, there is always a presentation of the work to acknowledge the efforts and results.