NORWICH – It’s difficult to walk through the emotional mine field of grief after the death of a loved one. You may struggle starting life over again when, in reality, the landscape of your life has been changed forever. Your emotional skin has been scarred and you may not be equipped to heal yourself. Family and friends can expect you to “bounce back” sooner than you feel ready. These are all legitimate challenges facing the bereaved, says Hospice Bereavement Coordinator Maureen Casey-Bryant. That’s why she’s starting a new support group in the New Year.

This group is designed for anyone who feels the deep pain of a loss, whether it is recent or buried in your past. “Mourning a loss takes hard work,” says Casey-Bryant. “Time alone doesn’t heal grief; it’s what you do with that time that counts. Talking about your life and loss with others who understand your feelings is an important first step on the path to emotional healing.”

The support group is free and open to any resident of Chenango County. No prior relationship with Hospice is required. The support group will meet at the Hospice office at 21 Hayes St. in Norwich on the third Thursday of each month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. beginning on Jan. 20.