Free or Low-Cost Grief Support: Forums, Counseling & Hotlines

Grief is a personal journey, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you're mourning the loss of a loved one, coping with anticipatory grief, or struggling with feelings of loneliness after a pet’s passing, there are affordable — and often free — resources available to help.

This guide includes trusted online grief forums, national hotlines, and places where you can find free or low-cost grief counseling near you. And of course, you’ll find all kinds of helpful articles for coping with loss on our website. 

Online Grief Support Forums

Online forums can be a lifeline when you need connection, comfort, or just someone who understands. These communities are open 24/7, offering support without cost or judgment.

1. Grieving.com

One of the largest and longest-running grief forums on the web, Grieving.com welcomes people coping with all kinds of loss — from the death of a spouse or parent to job loss or long-term illness. It's easy to navigate and has sections for non-death grief, COVID-19 loss, and more.

Why it helps:

• Separate forums for different types of loss
• Active discussions and warm community
• Optional galleries and polls to engage with others

2. Grief Healing Discussion Groups

Run by grief counselor Marty Tousley, this site offers compassionate, informed discussion boards. Topics include anticipatory grief, pet loss, and sibling loss, as well as sections for sharing healing tools like books and music.

Why it helps:

• Moderated by professionals
• Specialized forums like twin loss and caregiving grief
• A “Tools for Healing” section for self-care resources

3. Grief in Common

This community connects individuals who have experienced similar types of loss. You can also opt into one-on-one grief coaching or live chat (some features require a small fee).

Why it helps:

• User-friendly and compassionate space
• Includes support for sudden loss, LGBTQ+ grief, and more
• Offers optional personalized coaching and live chat

4. Alliance of Hope

Created for survivors of suicide loss, Alliance of Hope offers a safe, moderated forum that’s active 24/7. Grief after suicide can carry complex feelings like guilt or shame — this is a place where those emotions are welcomed and gently addressed.

Why it helps:

• Dedicated space for suicide loss survivors
• Uplifting sections like “Relief from Grief” and “Kindness”
• Forums supported by mental health professionals

5. Pet Loss Grief Support Message Board

Pet loss is deeply painful — and not always understood by others. This board provides a comforting space to honor your pet and talk with people who genuinely understand.

Why it helps:

• Weekly candle-lighting ceremonies
• Forums for all pet types and situations
• Includes a memorial gallery and pet tributes

Grief Support Hotlines

Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. If you're in crisis or simply need to talk, these hotlines are available anytime.

National Hotlines (U.S.)

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Call or text 988
• Offers 24/7 support for anyone in emotional distress, not just those at risk of suicide. Volunteers are trained in grief sensitivity.
• SAMHSA National Helpline
• Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• Connects you with local mental health and grief counseling resources—even if you don’t have insurance.
• Crisis Text Line
• Text HOME to 741741
• Free, 24/7 support via text with trained crisis counselors.

Pet Loss Hotlines

• Tufts Cummings Veterinary School: (508) 839-7966
• Open Mon–Fri, 6–9 PM EST. Leave a message for a call back outside of hours.
• CARE Pet Loss Helpline (University of Illinois): (217) 244-2273
• Available Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Support for both recent loss and anticipatory grief.

Where to Find Free or Low-Cost Grief Counseling

You may be able to find in-person or virtual grief counseling for little or no cost through the following sources:

Local Hospice Organizations

Even if your loved one didn’t receive hospice care, many hospices offer grief support to the wider community. Services may include individual counseling, group therapy, or memorial events.

Hospitals and Universities

Many hospitals offer support through chaplains or social workers. Teaching hospitals and university psychology departments often offer low-cost counseling through supervised student therapists.

Funeral Homes

Ask about aftercare services. Most funeral homes offer follow-up support, holiday memorials, and referrals to grief counselors. Click here to find a funeral home near you. 

Faith Communities

Churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples may provide free pastoral counseling or refer you to trusted local grief support groups.

Nonprofits and Agencies

Organizations like GriefShare offer in-person and online support groups. Most are faith-based, but welcoming to all.

You’re Not Alone

Grief takes time — and support. Whether you're comfortable chatting online, texting a crisis line, or seeking out a local counselor, help is within reach. Free and low-cost grief support doesn’t just offer comfort. It gives you tools to live with loss and slowly find your footing again.

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