The death of a loved one is always devastating. Loss as the result of an overdose poses unique challenges for families and loved ones. You will likely experience sadness, loneliness, anger, confusion, and isolation. Your grief may also be accompanied by anxiety, guilt, shame, blame, and stigma. Many family members and loved ones blame themselves in the cases of substance-related deaths, although the circumstances were far beyond their control.
We all deal with grief in our own time and in our own way. There are some resources specifically designed for people who are dealing with opioid or overdose bereavement that may afford those grieving valuable guidance and support.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Al-Anon and Nar-Anon are mutual support groups for family members of those suffering from alcoholism and/or addiction. Although these groups are not specifically for grief, many still find support and guidance in these groups while a family member is struggling or following a drug- and alcohol-related death. There is Narateen and Alateen for teenage family members and friends of addicts and alcoholics.
Broken No More provides online forums, articles, and resources for loved ones of people with addiction and those grieving overdose deaths. BNM was “created with the hope that more enlightened drug policies will reduce stigma and help stem the tide of addiction and overdose deaths.”
Grasp Help is a community of support and healing for those who lost a loved one to alcohol or drugs. GRASP has groups that meet all across the country.
Learn to Cope is a peer-led support network that offers education, resources, and hope for family members and friends who have loved ones affected by substance use disorder.
Moms Tell offers information about substance use treatment, recovery, education, and prevention. Founded by a group of moms who lost children to an overdose, Moms Tells is also focused on fighting legislation and policy issues related to substance use.
Team Sharing Inc. is a national organization of parents who have lost a child to substances. TSI provides support and friendship while raising awareness about addiction and its impact on the community.
What’s Your Grief is a grief and bereavement blog providing resources and articles to inform and support those dealing with an overdose death.