Disaster-Related Grief
Understanding loss and healing.
Grief after a disaster is layered, complicated, and often misunderstood. Survivors are not only grieving what was lost, but how it was lost—suddenly, violently, and without choice. This type of grief often comes with shock, anger, guilt, numbness, and confusion. There is no correct timeline and no single “right” way to grieve. Each of these losses is real, and each deserves care, time, and compassion as part of the recovery process. You may grieve multiple losses at once. Please give yourself some grace.
What’s included in this toolkit
Don’t rush. Take a breath. Ask for help.
✺ What disaster survivors have to say ✺
“I didn’t think I would ever survive this loss. For years, I carried intense guilt, believing it was my fault that my roommate died in the fire—thinking that if I had just blown out the candle, none of this would have happened. During my recovery, I didn’t always make the best decisions, but seeking therapy was the most important step I took. Through that work, I’ve learned to forgive myself and move forward. To honor my roommate, I talk to her every day.”
“I blamed my boyfriend for a long time after our cats died in the fire. After talking openly with him, we were able to work through our grief together. I didn’t fully understand the smoke and heat he experienced while trying to get out. Now, we honor our cats by going to a cat café every year to celebrate their lives.”
“I was so mad at everyone that kept telling me that I should be happy no one got hurt. I lost my mother’s ashes in this fire. Talking to a therapist allowed me to see it was okay to be sad over losing everything, including my favorite pair of jeans.”
Journal Prompts
Journaling after a disaster can be a gentle way to care for yourself during an overwhelming time. Putting your thoughts and emotions into words helps your brain and body make sense of what you’ve been through, easing anxiety and bringing back a small sense of control. Even a few sentences or simple notes can make a meaningful difference in supporting your healing and emotional balance.
For adults: What part of my home do I miss the most today?
What routines or moments with my pet do I miss most?
If I could speak freely to my loved one, what would I say right now?
For kids: Download this “What to say to someone having a hard time” activity sheet.
Have a question about your recovery?
You can call Our Front Porch at 720-593-8606 to speak to someone or email helpline@ourfrontporchco.org and one of our Disaster Stabilization Specialists will get back to you within 48 hours.