Death can be a delicate and uncomfortable topic, but for many people, it's still necessary to talk about it. Whether you've recently attended a funeral service, are facing the loss of a loved one, or are thinking about your own mortality, it's natural to want to talk about this topic--and it can also be difficult to find someone to talk to. This is where a death cafe comes in.

What Is It?

A death cafe is an event that brings a group of people together to talk about death and dying. This is an open discussion where you can express your feelings freely, ask questions, seek support, and support others. It can take place in a cafe, or in other locations, like a restaurant, church, or park--wherever the group feels comfortable.

What Happens There?

A death cafe is usually free to join (although you may need to buy your own drink), and anyone can attend. After an initial prompt to get the discussion started, the event is freeform and unscripted. There may be a central question for the session, or the floor may be open for different discussions. Participants can discuss their experiences with death, illness, and funeral services, or their ideas and fears about dying.

How Is This Helpful?

Many people struggle with complex and difficult emotions surrounding death. They may have lost loved ones unexpectedly, or have had to watch a loved one struggle through long and stressful illnesses before the funeral services. They may themselves be approaching death. These subjects can be hard to talk about; others may want to avoid the conversation due to discomfort, or may not be receptive to your feelings. Finding a group that's willing to discuss these issues frankly can be freeing or healing. It can bring relief, help you get your thoughts in order, lead to a new perspective, or simply show you that you aren't alone. These discussions can even become as much of a celebration of life as they are an acknowledgment of death. Not only can this help you, but it can also be a relief for loved ones who have different ways of coping with the subject and may not want to talk about it.

For resources to help you cope with loss, turn to Arndt Funeral Home LLC in Rochester, NY. Serving Monroe County since 1975, their compassionate staff is available 24/7 to help you with funeral service arrangements and to point you in the direction of helpful services, including grief support. Visit their website or call (585) 225-6350 to get in touch.