In today’s fast-paced, pressured society, coping with the death of a loved one can be very difficult. After a few days we are expected to be “over it” and get back to work, functioning normally.
Unfortunately, grief and loss are not processes that dissipate in a short period of time. Often we experience pain long after the loss and have no one to discuss our feelings with. Even our best friends don’t seem to fully understand. This is especially true if our loved one died of a stigmatized illness like AIDS.
AIDS Services of Austin (ASA) recognizes the grief and loss of friends and family members of people who have died of AIDS. No matter how much time has passed, it can be beneficial to talk with others with similar experiences who understand the bereavement issues you face.
This fall ASA will offer a six-week educational and support group for friends and families of persons who have died of AIDS. Lois Van Laningham, LMSW-ACP, and Beth Pomeroy, Ph.D., LMSW-ACP, will facilitate the group, which will be held at ASA, 7215 Cameron Road.
Topics will include how to cope with the loss (what helps and what doesn’t); dealing with the AIDS stigma; ways of remembering your loved one; grief as a normal process and what to expect; and coping with depression, survivor’s guilt, anxiety, and other emotions.
If you would be interested in such a group, please call Lois Van Laningham at 469-2119 or Beth Pomeroy at 232-3405 for starting date, time, and other information. The group is free and confidential.
This article appears in August 4 • 2000.