In observance of National Grief Awareness Day on August 30, the Rockland Behavioral Health Response Team (BHRT) is encouraging residents to acknowledge the many forms of grief and to seek support when needed.

Grief, often associated with the loss of a loved one, can also arise from separation, illness, job loss, or major life changes. Experts note that grief is a deeply personal experience and doesn’t follow a set timeline. Many individuals may cycle through various emotions—including denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—as described in the widely recognized Kübler-Ross model.

“Grief doesn’t always come with visible signs or outward expressions,” said Tim Egan, Executive Director of Rockland Paramedic Services, which operates BHRT. “It can hide behind daily routines. Our team is here to offer support to anyone struggling in silence.”

To help those coping with grief, BHRT provides free, 24/7 crisis response services, including on-site emotional support and connections to ongoing counseling, peer support, and community resources.

BHRT Services Include:

• Free, on-site mental health crisis response

• Non-judgmental emotional support and listening

• Referrals to counseling, peer services, and local resources

• Services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Anyone in need of help can contact the BHRT Crisis Hotline at (845) 517‑0400.

Community Engagement on August 30

In honor of National Grief Awareness Day, BHRT is also encouraging the public to participate in two community initiatives:

• Spotlight on Stories – Residents are invited to share anonymous messages of remembrance or reflections on grief via direct message on BHRT’s Facebook page or by email at info@rocklandhelp.org.

• Grief Check-In Prompt – Individuals are encouraged to reach out to someone with a simple message: “I’m thinking of you today.”

“Whether someone is navigating recent loss or unresolved grief from the past, support is available,” said Egan. “No one should have to go through it alone.”

About BHRT

The Rockland Behavioral Health Response Team (BHRT) is a county initiative providing mobile, community-based mental health crisis intervention. Staffed by trained clinicians and peer specialists, the team operates outside of traditional emergency services to offer compassionate, confidential care at no cost.

More information is available at www.rocklandhelp.org.