Ways to Support Grieving Children and Adolescents

Question 1

What to do:

Choices

Answer 1

To prevent or respond to negative choices, encourage them to make healthy and creative choices in dealing with their pain and healing process

Question 2

What to do:

Funerals

Answer 2

They must be part of the funeral. Invite them to see the body, participate in the memorial and burial or see cremated remains

Question 3

What to do:

Remembering

Answer 3

Suggest they create memory rituals

Question 4

What to do:

Behaviors

Answer 4

Be steady and stable during this turbulent period

Question 5

What to do:

Seeking Help

Answer 5

Seek help for your own grief process through appropriate means such as peers, support groups or a professional therapist

Question 6

What to do:

Grief Processing

Answer 6

Accept each teen’s unique grief process

Question 7

What to say:

Truth

Answer 7

Tell the truth and answer questions honestly.

Question 8

What to say:

Talking about the deceased

Answer 8

Discuss their perceptions, experiences, and beliefs talk about the person and recall memories.

Question 9

What to say:

Changes

Answer 9

Acknowledge their loss of focus and interest

Question 10

What to say:

Words of support

Answer 10

• Use words and expressions of comfort and affection

- Assure the adolescent of your love and respect

Question 11

Deciding whether or not to attend the funeral

Answer 11

There is no right or wrong answer. Should never be forced. Bring someone the child or adolescent trust to go with them. Be sure to prepare them.