Grief and Loss in Recovery
You do not have to make a loss fit a recovery milestone. This guide helps you ask for support with the days in front of you, without requiring you to tell the whole story.
Download Fillable PDF
To print this guide, use your browser’s Print command.
No email or account is required. Use the PDF or printed spaces for private notes. This guide does not collect worksheet answers. Save and reopen a completed PDF to check your notes.
Original words you can borrow
| What I need | A possible opening |
|---|---|
| Company without advice | I do not need you to fix this. Could you sit with me or call this evening? |
| Help with one responsibility | I am struggling to handle the errands this week. Could you help with groceries on Wednesday? |
| Room to remember someone | Would you be willing to listen to a memory? It is okay to tell me if this is not a good time. |
| A conversation with my clinician | Since this loss, these parts of my days have changed. I would like to discuss what support I need. |
SAMHSA advises being specific about the help you want and choosing someone you trust. If a conversation is not helpful, another trusted person or professional may be a better next contact.
Sources: [1]
A small support plan
- What I want someone to understand
- Write only what feels useful. You can describe the effect on your days without details of the loss.
- One request and who I will ask
- Listening, company, practical help or an appointment; when/how to ask.
- What I want to discuss with a professional, if relevant
- Changes in sleep, daily functioning, substance-use concerns or ongoing care; questions, not a self-diagnosis.