National Grief Awareness Day is observed annually on August 30 to raise awareness about the emotional journey of grief and the importance of supporting those who are grieving. Founded by Angie Cartwright in 2014, the day seeks to normalize conversations about loss and provide resources for healing. It emphasizes that grief is a natural, personal process and encourages open communication to foster understanding and empathy.
Quick Facts
- When is it? August 30
- Tagged as: Awareness, Mental Health, Support
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalGriefAwarenessDay
- When was it founded? 2014
- Who founded it? Angie Cartwright
History of National Grief Awareness Day
Angie Cartwright, who experienced multiple personal losses, founded National Grief Awareness Day in 2014. Her goal was to eliminate the stigma surrounding grief and educate people about its emotional complexities. Through her advocacy, she created a platform for open dialogue about bereavement, ensuring that no one feels alone in their journey.
Timeline
- 1917: Sigmund Freud describes grief as a natural process not to be tampered with.
- 1969: Elisabeth Kübler-Ross introduces the “Five Stages of Grief” in her book On Death and Dying.
- 1996–2006: Psychologists begin questioning oversimplified views of grief.
- 2014: Angie Cartwright establishes National Grief Awareness Day.
- 2022: Prolonged Grief Disorder is officially recognized by the American Psychiatric Association.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 30 | Saturday |
| 2026 | August 30 | Sunday |
| 2027 | August 30 | Monday |
| 2028 | August 30 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | August 30 | Thursday |
| 2030 | August 30 | Friday |
Observed
National Grief Awareness Day is observed through:
- Community events to share stories and support.
- Social media campaigns using #NationalGriefAwarenessDay.
- Workshops on coping mechanisms and mental health resources.
Fun Facts About National Grief Awareness Day
- It’s also known as “National Bereavement Day.”
- Angie Cartwright’s personal losses inspired her advocacy for grief awareness.
- The day highlights that grief is not limited to death; it can stem from any significant loss.
Quiz
- Who founded National Grief Awareness Day?
- What year was it established?
- What is the official hashtag for this day?
(Answers: Angie Cartwright, 2014, #NationalGriefAwarenessDay)
FAQs
Q: Why is National Grief Awareness Day important?
A: It raises awareness about grief’s impact, encourages open communication, and provides support for those experiencing loss.
Q: How can I participate in this day?
A: Share supportive messages on social media, attend events, or simply reach out to someone grieving.
Q: Is grief always related to death?
A: No, grief can result from any significant loss, such as a relationship or job.
Importance of National Grief Awareness Day
This day is vital because it:
- Raises public awareness about the emotional toll of grief.
- Encourages empathy and understanding for those grieving.
- Provides resources to help individuals cope with loss effectively.
Related
- Mental Health Awareness Month
- World Mental Health Day (October 10)
- Suicide Prevention Week