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Matters Forum set for Jan. 21
A Health Matters public forum on ‘Grief and the Grieving Process’ will feature Jay Kessinger, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Kessinger has 40 years of clinic experience in mental health and was the administrator at State Hospital North in Orofino for seven years prior to his retirement. 
The presentation, sponsored by St Mary’s Hospital and Clinics, will be held in the downstairs conference room on Wednesday, January 21 at 2:30 p.m. It is free and open to the public. “Most people associate grief with the loss of a loved one, but grief can also occur with any loss. The loss of a job, of a person’s good health, of life as it used to be or the loss of any thing meaningful in a person’s life,” said Kessinger. “The forum will not only talk about grief and its signs, but about the grieving process which is a natural part of our healing process.” The forum will include information on the normal manifestations of grief, accepting and expressing feelings, role changes, stress, coping, support systems and signs of recovery. “We’re fortunate that Jay is willing to use his expertise to present this forum,” said Sr. Corinne Forsman, SMH Mission Services Coordinator. “Sometimes after the holidays are over and things have quieted down we feel our losses more acutely and become interested in learning more about grief and its resolution.” “There is no right or wrong way to go through the grieving process, but knowing some things to expect and learning more about grief helps us cope and better manage our lives,” said Kessinger. “If people are interested in learning more after this session we can certainly discuss further meetings.” Easiest access to the conference room is through the lower parking lot entrance behind the hospital or the main entrance can be used. Refreshments will be served. |
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