Supporting Teens Through Bereavement: A Parent's Guide

How death is talked about is important

Empathy is key when helping your teenager through bereavement.

Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging experience, and when it comes to supporting your grieving teenager, the task can be even more daunting. Adolescence is a time of immense change and self-discovery, and the emotional turmoil of bereavement can be especially difficult for teens to navigate. However, as a parent, you play a crucial role in helping your teenager as you both go through this challenging time.

How death is talked about within your family is important because of the long-term effects it can have on your teenage child. Your method of approach depends on your teen's age, understanding, or whether they have encountered loss before.

I have observed the impact of death on teens whose response to losing a loved one and not having a space to be vulnerable because of concerns for their parent's own grief. In some cases, the young person does not have the language to express their feelings and might become withdrawn. In this blog, we'll explore strategies to help you manage bereavement with your teen.

Open Communication

The foundation of any supportive relationship is open communication. Create a safe space for you and your teen to express your feelings, thoughts, and questions about your loss. Encourage them to share their emotions and reassure them that it's okay to grieve their way and at their own pace.

Be Empathetic and Non-Judgmental

Empathy is key when helping your teenager through bereavement. Let them know that their feelings are valid and avoid any judgment or criticism. Adolescents often experience a wide range of emotions, and it's essential to acknowledge and accept these without passing judgment.

Provide Information

Depending on your teenager's age and maturity, they may have questions about death and the grieving process. Provide age-appropriate information about the loss and the emotional journey associated with it. This can help demystify death and alleviate some of the fear or confusion they might be feeling.

Encourage Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Teens may be susceptible to negative coping mechanisms such as substance abuse or risky behaviours to deal with their pain. Encourage and model healthy coping strategies, such as journaling, talking to a therapist, engaging in physical activity, or practising relaxation techniques.

Maintain Routine and Structure

During times of grief, maintaining a sense of normalcy can be comforting. Stick to a regular routine as much as possible, as it provides stability and a sense of security for your teenager.

Seek Professional Help

If you notice your teenager is struggling to cope or their grief is impacting their daily life, consider seeking professional help. A therapist or counsellor can provide invaluable support and guidance during this challenging time.

Encourage Peer Support

Teens often find solace in connecting with friends who have experienced similar losses. Encourage your teenager to maintain their social connections and provide opportunities for them to discuss their feelings with peers who understand their grief.

Be Patient

Grief is a complex and individual process that doesn't have a set timeline. Be patient with your teenager and allow them to grieve at their own pace. Some days, they may seem fine, and others they may be overwhelmed by grief. Let them know that you are there for them no matter what.

Celebrate and Remember

Encourage your teenager to celebrate and remember the life of the person, family pet, childhood, or thing they lost. Creating memorials, participating in ceremonies, or starting a memory journal can be therapeutic and allow space for the memories.

Take Care of Yourself

In your role as a supportive parent, it's crucial that you also take care of your own well-being. Grief can be physically and emotionally draining, and you need to be in good shape to provide the necessary support for your teen.

Helping a teenager navigate through bereavement is a challenging journey, but with love, empathy, and patience, you can provide the support they need to heal and grow. Keep in mind that the grieving process is unique for each person, and it's essential to tailor your approach to your teenager's individual needs. By following these tips and being a steadfast presence in their life, you can assist your teenager in coping with the loss and moving forward on their path of healing. Blooming Families is here to serve if you need support to address grief for you and your teen.