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Canadian Grief Alliance statement on Tumbler Ridge Tragedy
Just Released
•Canadian Grief Alliance
The Canadian Grief Alliance (CGA) shares the shock and anguish of all Canadians at news of the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. We join with people across the country in holding the people of Tumbler Ridge in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.
When grief is precipitated by violence and loss on a large scale, as in Tumbler Ridge, it is intense and overwhelming. Naturally, people there will turn first to family and friends for comfort and reassurance. Though not everyone will have lost someone in this tragedy, in a small community, everyone is impacted. Shock and grief will be widespread and touch all areas of daily life. Though compassion and support for the people of Tumbler Ridge is abundant, their needs for emergency medical and mental health support will extend beyond local resources. It is important for us all to remember that the grief that follows a tragedy like this is extensive and pervasive and will impact this community long after this tragedy has faded from the headlines.
Though the experience of loss and grief is universal, its expression is a unique reflection of the nature of the death and of the relationship between the bereaved person and the loss. In this instance, it will involve the whole community. Grief is much more than sadness and can include fear, disbelief, guilt, and anger. When grief and traumatic events intersect, it can also bring feelings like numbness and fear and persistent/intrusive thoughts. Some people may experience insomnia, loss of appetite, fatigue, or confusion. It shows up in emotions, thoughts, activities, behaviour, relationships, and values. People may feel helpless and unsure of ‘how to help’; the importance of showing up, being present, and expressing care for people experiencing grief, without trying to 'fix' it, cannot be underestimated — now, and in the time to come.
People far from yesterday’s events may be reminded of tragedy in their own lives and find that they are suffering with this news as well. The shocking tragedy that occurred in Tumbler Ridge, reminds us of our vulnerability and touches our shared humanity deeply.
For those in BC who need support you can reach out to:
BC Bereavement Helpline
Volunteers are trained to provide compassionate listening, so if you need is to talk to someone, the Helpline volunteers are there to listen. Your call is free, confidential, anonymous, and will be treated with care in helping you find the most appropriate support for your specific type of loss.
Our helpline is open Monday through Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm
604-738-9950 or toll-free 1-877-779-2223
Canada-Wide Support/Resources:
Crisis Line
Call 1-800-784-2433 or dial 9-8-8 if you are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide.
310 Mental Health Support
310-6789 (NO AREA CODE) Call for emotional support, information and resources specific to mental health.
For online grief information:
MyGrief.ca - Module 25: Grief After Trauma can be found here.
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