Dealing with the death of a loved one is a process that no one should have to go through alone.

The Tablet offers this bereavement supplement with practical and spiritual advice for coping with loss and grief through online support, coffeehouse discussion groups or help from friends and neighbors who bring lasagna and listening ears.

This special issue also looks at hospice care; trends in natural burials and memorial services; the growing number of women funeral directors; and how the grieving process often begins long before a loved-one dies and continues long after large-scale tragedies occur.

Grieving Can Begin Before Actual Death

Seeing Hospice as a Blessing for Families

Burials Go ‘Green by Staying Traditional

Online Resources for Funerals, Grieving

When Lasagna Says More Than Words to the Bereaved

‘Death Cafes’ Confront Difficulty with Cake

Personalized Funerals Can Miss Spiritual Side

Grief Counselors’ Goal Is Long-term Healing

More Women Becoming Funeral Directors