If you are considering a chapter, please take a few moment to watch this.

The Wounded Healer

Are you motivated to begin a chapter of G.R.A.S.P. in your area / city?

Have you searched in vain for a support group that answers your specific needs?

You understand the heartbreak of a sudden substance death whether its cause was by prescription self-medication, alcohol or other drugs.

Because of your life experiences, both before and after such a passing, won't you share those experiences with others who are also seeking solace?

To do so does not require a degree of any kind.
What are the requirements?

•  A compassionate heart.

•  An ear to listen.

•  A shoulder to lean on.

•  A hand to hold.

•  A friend to share.

We will provide information and guidelines and will be available with continued assistance.
As with all G.R.A.S.P. services, this is totally free to each chapter.

There are so many deaths across the nation and, indeed, worldwide, attributed to substances. Yet, this is the one field that is not supported even by other bereavement groups. Why? Embarrassment, chiefly. Those who have not experienced the struggles of families engaged in the challenges of trying to help a member in addiction, do not know how to respond to this form of passing.

There is a perception that somehow the family was to blame for this lost soul, no matter how much they had tried to intervene. Most often, the public view is that these passings are suicides. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

There is such a tremendous need for G.R.A.S.P. chapters.

Please step forward and help us aid other families who are searching for someone to understand their needs.

“Those who help others help themselves in terms of an increased sense of self-worth and self-esteem. Members develop a firmer understanding of the recovery process when helping others, as expressed in the phrase, ‘If you help someone up the hill, you get closer to the top yourself.' Even new members experience this feeling of helping and belonging, when they listen to other newcomers and acknowledge with a nod that they understand what is being said. In this way, groups turn what society considers a liability (e.g. one's experience as an addict, widow, or person with an illness) into an asset (their unique ability to provide understanding and help to others).”

“For many people, the experience of illness, disability, or trauma results in isolation and alienation. After new members meet with others who have similar experiences, they often report feeling ‘normal' again. People are comforted by knowing that their experiences and feelings are not unusual. They also can satisfy the need for feedback about how they are doing.”

The above two paragraphs are quotes from:
“ Self-Help Groups: Options For Support, Education, and Advocacy” by Edward J. Madera of the New Jersey Self-Help Group Clearinghouse and the national registry: American Self-Help Group Clearinghouse of which G.R.A.S.P. is a member of “model” groups willing to help others establish chapters.

We're waiting to hear from you.