What is Grief: An expression or response to the death of the loss of a loved one. These expressions can be emotional, mental, physical and social that can become difficult to deal with. What is Mourning: To show sorrow for a loss or for the deceased in a sense of one’s culture and belief. When a person goes through the process of adapting to the passing of a loved one. Mourning is the cultural experience or observation of the loss What is Bereavement: A time of mourning when a loved one has passed.
Grief and loss are an experience that everyone will eventually face during their lifetime. This experience can be a loss of a significant other, pet, livelihood, a relationship and so much more. It is an experience that can be difficult to navigate.
Remember that everyone grieves differently and there is no right or wrong way to do so. Feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief are some ways that loss can be expressed. Grief reactions vary widely among everyone and may include fluctuations in emotions and behavior that may or may not cause concerns. Some may experience increased anxiety, mood changes including depression, and youths can also decline in academic performance. Psychological evaluation is required for these signs and symptoms which are called complicated or prolonged grief for both youths and adults. Remember that it is imperative to allow yourself to feel these emotions and to seek support from loved ones or a professional if needed. In times of grief, it can be helpful to find solace in the words of others who have experienced loss. Parents, teachers, guidance counselors and other social supports play a vital role in supporting bereaved children and adolescents.
Children: Children and adolescence dealing with grief is based on their cognitive and emotional development level of understanding. Books and other activities are used to assist in their expression of loss. Grief is a subjective experience that a bereaved child or adolescent undergoes following the death of a loved one. Most young people experience the death of at least one loved one at some point in their childhood. It’s important to remember that every child grieves differently and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to helping a grieving child.
There are some tips that may help:
Encourage the child to express their feelings: Let the child know that it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or confused. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and listen to them without judgment.
Be patient and understanding: Grief is a process that takes time. Be patient with the child and understand that they may need extra support during this time.
Provide a safe and supportive environment: Create a safe and supportive environment for the child to express their feelings. Let them know that you are there for them and that they can come to you with any questions or concerns. Maintain a routine: Try to maintain a routine as much as possible. This can help provide a sense of stability and security for the child.
Seek professional help if necessary: If the child is experiencing prolonged or complicated grief, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide additional support and guidance.