GREENFIELD — A group offering peer support to those who have lost loved ones to suicide has moved its meeting location to Greenfield Community College.
Those looking for support and advice on how to continue with life after a loved one took theirs can now find a group of peers with similar experiences meeting at 5:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at Greenfield Community College at 1 College Drive in the East Building, Room 101. Previously, the group met at the Mental Health Association office in Greenfield.
“We were moving because the MHA office in Greenfield was closing and GCC was generous enough to offer their space,” Organizer Jen Matoney said. “It’s a lounge, it’s pretty different from what we’re used to.”
Matoney said at the MHA, the support group met in a more formal office space, but at the community college, they meet in a “small, cozy lounge” with couches rather than tables and chairs.
“It’s a welcome change,” Matoney said.
“I’m excited about it,” Ben Delozier, a support group facilitator, said on the move.
The pair said the goal of the support group was to make space for talk about suicide, a topic still considered taboo by many.
“Our goal is to create a safe space for people to talk about this unique type of loss,” Matoney said. “Meeting other people who’ve survived this type of loss can be incredibly helpful.”
Discussing this shared experience can help heal the human heart
Ben delozier
“I walk away every time thinking this space is so important,” Delozier said. “People aren’t talking about death and it can be a deeply isolating experience … discussing this shared experience can help heal the human heart.”
Matoney said she has made close friends through support groups, and their friendship has been key to making it through important life events when loved ones who have passed are no longer around.
“Many of them keep coming back,” Matoney said. “I’ve seen people supporting each other beautifully.”
“It’s magic what happens in that space,” Delozier said. “We don’t wish that anybody end up in this space but it’s an important space to have.”
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health call 988.
