A GUIDE FOR GRIEVING TEEN: Understanding and HelpingTeens Heal From Grief

Teenagers feel things deeply, but often work to hide those feelings - particularly from their family. It is important that parents and other caring adults helping teens deal with grief be aware of the subtle signs of grief in a teen.

Even if a teenager has experienced loss in the past, this may be the first time they're expected to fully participate in a funeral or other end-of-life rituals. Families can start helping a teen deal with grief by preparing them for what to expect. Not knowing what the proper etiquette is for the event can cause added anxiety for teens who don't know what to expect or how to act. Families can also involve them in the planning of the services and ask them if they would like to be a part of the service in any way. They can encourage a grieving teen to participate in the services, but should not force them.

It's important to let teens know that grief doesn't end with the funeral or memorial service. In many ways, this is just the beginning of the grief recovery process. Let grieving teens know that it can help to express their feelings and celebrate the person they have lost.

Children and teenagers express their grief in a variety of ways. Some may be sad and verbalize the loss like many adults. Depending on their ages, however, they may show sadness only sometimes and for short periods. Children may complain of physical discomfort, such as stomachaches or headaches. Or they may express anxiety or distress about other challenges, such as school or sports.

Helping your child cope with loss

Explain death in simple, direct, honest terms geared to your child's developmental level. Children cannot reflect on their thoughts and emotions like adults. So they will need to have many short conversations. Adults may need to repeat the same information many times. Children may ask the same questions often as they try to make sense of difficult information.

IT IS GOOD YOU GET A COPY OF THIS BOOK TO HELP A CHILD/TEEN.