A Message from the Director

Whenever we experience a loss of any type we process that loss through a series of steps as we adjust to the change in our life. This process is called grieving. These steps include:

• Difficulty accepting the loss and trying to minimalize or find alternative explanations (Often called denial)
• Feeling angry about the loss and blaming other people or events
• Trying to maintain the old patterns, behaviors or routines before adjusting to the new necessary changes. Often referred to as holding onto the “Old normal” (Called “bargaining”)
• A period of sadness as the permanence of the loss is realized
• Acceptance of the changes resulting from the loss

This grieving a loss is normal for all people even while the process will be experienced uniquely by each person. Understanding, compassion and kindness by each person toward each other person will provide needed support while the grief is processed.

In this global pandemic all the people of our world are grieving the changes in our old ways of living even as we make adjustments to save lives and our planet.

We can support ourselves and other by implementing the following:

• Share our feeling with others and offer caring responses
• Help each other with necessary tasks and needs
• Stay connected through social media and other methods to reduce isolation and loneliness
• Think positively fostering hope and well-being
• Reduce stress through exercise, balanced meals, deep breathing
• Cultivate spirituality through prayer, meditation, walks in nature, music

Follow us on social media for weekly tips on Mental health. Read articles on this website to find additional support. Together we will create a stronger, safer and secure living environment based on love, compassion , kindness and understanding.

The Stephan Center 2023-2024 Report