Handling the Holidays While Grieving the Loss of a Loved One
The holiday season, a time of celebration and togetherness, can also be emotionally challenging for those grieving the loss of a loved one. “One thing you can do is take some time to sit down, make a flexible plan, and write it out so you can refer to it later,... Breaking the Silence: Supporting Suicide Prevention and Survivors of Loss
Those left in the wake of a suicide loss sometimes aren’t sure where to turn or what to do. Uprooted by shock and overcome by the grief of losing someone to suicide can feel painful and isolating. Recognizing National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September,... Making Your Wishes Known: The Value of Discussing & Documenting Your Healthcare Decisions
We plan for exciting milestones and celebrate life’s moments, big and small. Yet it’s easy to sidestep planning for our healthcare wishes. National Healthcare Decisions Day, recognized each year on April 16, is a reminder to pause and reflect on our preferences. It... Navigating the Caregiver’s Journey: Chaplain Kevin Watt Shares Guidance
Some of the quiet, everyday heroes among us are the family and friends who serve as dedicated caregivers to loved ones. Kevin Watt, HopeWest Chaplain, joins us for a Q&A celebrating the resilience and compassion of caregivers, offering insights and helpful advice... Navigating the Journey: A Counselor’s Guide to Dementia Care
In this Q&A style blog, HopeWest Meeker counselor, Judy Eskelson (pictured above), offers advice for caregivers who are supporting loved ones diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Eskelson, who also brings her experience as a nurse practitioner, shares her... Navigating the Holidays with Hope: A Guide to Grief and Gratitude
The holiday season, a time of celebration and togetherness, can also be emotionally challenging for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The festive atmosphere, often filled with laughter and joy, can be difficult to enjoy for those faced with grief. The difference...
A Guide to Hospice and Palliative Care: What You Need to Know
November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, a time to celebrate and raise awareness about the life-changing services that offer comfort and support to individuals and their families facing serious illness and end of life. Hospice and palliative care play... Moral Injury – Why It Matters and What We Can Do
Moral injury, a term that makes many of us tilt our head in curiosity, is a surprisingly important topic within our community. Scott Hogue, the Chaplain at HopeWest, is hosting an open seminar on this subject, and here’s why it matters. Moral injury occurs when...