Episode Details

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Have you ever wondered what to say to someone who’s grieving? Or felt unsure about how to handle your own grief? In this episode, I chat with Bryan Petheram, a counsellor and group facilitator from Griefline, about the complexities of grief and how we can better support ourselves and others through loss.

Bryan shares his journey from being a police officer to becoming a grief counsellor, offering unique insights into how our understanding of grief has evolved. We discuss the importance of acknowledging loss, the power of language in grief, and why it’s crucial to avoid platitudes like “at least…” when comforting someone who’s grieving. Bryan emphasises that there’s no “right” way to grieve and explains how grief can change as we age and experience different losses.

We also delve into the practical aspects of grief support, including when it might be time to seek professional help and the various services Griefline offers. Whether you’re supporting a grieving friend or navigating your own loss, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies for dealing with grief in a healthy, compassionate way.

Key points from the episode:

• The evolution of grief understanding: from stages to a non-linear process
• The importance of acknowledging loss and using clear language about death
• Why saying “I’m sorry for your loss” might not be the best approach
• How to support someone who’s grieving: be present, not perfect

The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.

Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.

Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.

 Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events 

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.

No pressure.
 No expectation.

Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
 it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.

Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?

Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.

SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.

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Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.

Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/

Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/