Online Discussion Groups provide a safe, facilitator-led space where widowers can connect with other men who understand their loss, share experiences and find support during the early years of grief.

What to Expect in Group

Supportive structure, shared experience and clear expectations for participation.

Guidelines
Respect, Safety
FAQs
Clarity, Answers
Registration
Join the Group

Online Discussion Group Guidelines

These guidelines help create a respectful, supportive and confidential space for all participants. They outline shared expectations around privacy, communication, inclusion and attendance so every member can feel safe, heard and supported throughout the group experience.

Confidentiality & Respect for Privacy

  • What’s shared in the group stays in the group – including names, stories and personal details.
  • Please do not take screenshots, record sessions, or save the chat.
  • Online spaces are not fully private – be mindful of your surroundings. Use headphones if needed and mute your microphone when not speaking to protect others ’privacy.
  • We trust you to uphold confidentiality, but due to the nature of the internet, it is not guaranteed.

Group Connection & Support

  • Online intimacy takes intention. While we’re separated by screens, we’re united by shared experience.
  • Show up for others as best you can, even when navigating your own grief.
  • This is a space for mutual support – not advice. Avoid “should,” “ought,” or “must.” Instead, offer empathy, presence and personal reflections.

Sharing Space Equitably

  • Everyone deserves time to speak. No one voice should dominate. You’re welcome to listen quietly – especially in the first session, when we’re just getting to know each other.
  • This is not a therapy group, but we honor all expressions of feelings, grief and healing.
  • All emotions are welcome here.
  • Share openly, knowing others may express themselves differently.
  • Be mindful of time and space – support grows when we all have room to speak and be heard.

A Judgment-Free Zone

  • We honor all belief systems, cultural traditions and identities.
  • Respect for race, religion, spirituality, sexuality and personal values is non-negotiable.

Attendance & Commitment

  • Attendance at the first session is required.
  • You may miss up to two sessions. If you anticipate more absences, we recommend joining a future cycle.
  • Please call or text if you’re unable to attend.

Online Discussion Groups FAQs

This section answers common questions about Online Discussion Groups, including how groups work, who they are for, what to expect during sessions and how to join. It is designed to help you decide if this format is right for you.

What types of grief support do you offer?

The National Widowers ’Organization (NWO) offers many services for widowers including free
podcasts and webinars, the Widower-to-Widower Program and an online discussion group for
men who lost a wife/partner within the past three years. Each “peer support” group consists of 5-
10 men meeting every week for 5-8 weeks. Groups are led by a facilitator, who was also a
widower and meet for at least one hour.

What is “Peer Support”?

Peer support is the well-established process pf connecting people with others who have had a
similar experience. While helping others they are also able to help themselves. Peer led
discussion groups connect widowers so that their experiences can be shared in a safe
environment.

What will be discussed during the Online Discussion Groups?

These discussion groups are for widowers seeking other men who share and understand their
experiences. The conversation will be focused on what the participants want to discuss, including
emotions of loneliness and despair that one can feel. With the guidance of the facilitator,
members will share their own experiences and will be met with empathy and support.

What is the process for joining a group?

After completing the application and returning it, one of our staff will be in touch with you within
two business days. The staff member will answer any questions and schedule a pre-group
telephone call or Zoom appointment. During this appointment, you will meet with the group
facilitator to get to know each other and together determine if the group is the right fit for you.
After this pre-group meeting, and it is established that our group is appropriate for your individual
grief needs, you will be offered a spot in the next available group.

What are the fees for attending group?

There are no charges or fees associated with NWO Online Discussion Groups or any of our
other services.

Online Discussion Group Registration Form

Registration allows us to learn more about you and ensure the group is a good fit for your needs. After submitting the form, we will contact you to discuss next steps and answer any remaining questions.