_{By Leah Shefsky, Grief Specialist and Chaplaincy Coordinator}

Grieving the loss of a close loved one is a profound and overwhelming experience. For young adults in their 20s and 30s, this journey can be especially disorienting. This stage of life is often focused on building relationships, careers and families, so the loss of someone close can significantly disrupt one’s sense of stability and future plans. Additionally, young adults may face feelings of isolation, as they might not have peers who have experienced similar losses. Well-meaning friends may struggle to provide the support needed, leaving the griever to navigate and often educate others about their experience.

Finding community with others who understand the unique challenges of grieving in this age group can be incredibly comforting. At JCFS Chicago, we facilitate a 20s and 30s grief group in partnership with Mishkan Chicago and Base Chicago that offers a space for this kind of support, addressing topics such as raising young children who won’t know their grandparents, managing grief in the workplace and dealing with complex family dynamics. Being in community with others who get it can provide comfort in otherwise impossible times.

Last spring, in collaboration with Base Chicago, JCFS hosted a Shabbat dinner for young adults who had experienced the loss of a loved one. The evening began with introductions and sharing of Shabbat memories, quickly evolving into a supportive community where participants found solace and understanding. Discussions of shiva, parents who would not be at weddings, and Jewish geography, sprinkled with dark humor filled the room. While virtual gatherings provide valuable support, there is something uniquely comforting about coming together in person to share a meal and connect with others who have been there.

In addition to supporting those who are grieving, we have been working to open up conversations for young adults about death and dying. Through facilitated discussions, text studies and book talks, we aim to expand these conversations and integrate them into our communities, creating spaces where these topics can be discussed frankly and in supportive environments. This helps those in their 20s and 30s become more comfortable facing the reality of death and dying and can help prepare them when they inevitably experience a loss in their own lives.

Grief for young people poses a unique set of challenges. Creating space and community for those in their 20s and 30s to connect with peers going through similar things is an important part of those journeys.

We are grateful for the generous support provided by the Lauri S. Bauer Foundation for Sudden Loss for these and other grief-related services.  Email Leah Shefsky for more information about all of the grief support we provide, including for young adults in their 20s and 30s.