Grief is bound to affect each one of us at some point in our live. It's normal.  It's ok.  Can be very different from person to person.  And is so complex, in fact, that Elizabeth Kübler-Ross' original five stages of grief has evolved into seven.

Check out this article, written by Kimberly Holland, that walks through the five and seven stages, with examples.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental or behavioral health crisis, free help is immediately available.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, via phone, text and online chat, offering people compassionate care and support from trained crisis counselors for individuals, families or their loved ones. One does not have to be suicidal to call 988 but can reach out when experiencing any behavioral health crisis. 988 call services are available in English and Spanish, along with interpretation services in more than 150 languages. Texting 988 and online chat are currently available only in English. Veterans and military service members can call 988 and press “1” to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line.

For many people in Oregon, dealing with the wildfires has been especially difficult.
For those directly affected by the fires and evacuations, these traumatic events can bring feelings of stress, anxiety, grief, worry and anger. Even those who were not directly affected by fires and evacuations this year but have experienced them in the past may feel these emotions again. Seeing news reports or images of current fires or hearing about fires affecting loved ones can drive feelings like anxiety and stress.
Click the number below to be connected with the Safe + Strong Helpline; someone to talk to or find mental health resources.

Depression is a common ailment among adults in the United States. The National Institutes of Health estimates about eight percent of adults in the country suffered from depression in 2020. Family caregivers are no exception, and may be at increased risk due to the stresses and difficulties of caregiving. Unfortunately, many caregivers experiencing depression either may not recognize the signs of depression, be ashamed to admit their “weakness,” or feel they are too busy with work and caregiving responsibilities to seek help.

For caregivers who feel they may be or are suffering from depression, exercise, a healthy diet, the support of family and friends, and consultation with a trained mental health professional may help prevent depression from getting worse over time. Click 'More Information' below for an overview of the risk factors, signs, and treatment options for depression.

by Calvin Hu, Education Coordinator, Family Caregiver Alliance