Losing a loved one is difficult at any age, but your teenager may need additional help to cope with their grief. Before and after the funeral, there are ways for you to assist your child when it comes to mourning. If someone in the family has passed, consult the guide below for helpful suggestions during this difficult time.

How to Help Your Teen Deal With the Loss of a Loved One

1. Be Honest

It’s easy to think that keeping hard truths from children is a way of protecting them, but honesty is always the best policy. Be upfront about the cause of death and don’t bend the truth to make the situation feel lighter. Your teen will appreciate the honesty. Understanding the event is also the first step to healing.

2. Stick to Routines

Make sure your teen is sleeping for eight hours a day and eating regularly. These routines can be affected by grief. Additionally, keep their lives as normal as possible by letting them resume school the following week and continuing to hold them accountable for homework, chores, and extracurricular activities. Minimizing disruptions will help them move past this challenging time.

3. Encourage Socialization

Teens may find it easier to seek solace in friends when they’re grieving. Encourage them to reach out to their classmates and talk openly about their feelings, even if you aren’t privy to the conversations. Expressing themselves and opening up will help them heal.

4. Let Them Lead

Don’t tell your teenager how to feel or think about their own grief. Mourning is a personal process that everyone experiences differently. Sometimes, a long hug or even comfortable silence can mean as much as a conversation. Let them talk to you when they’re ready and don’t push them.

5. Celebrate the Deceased

Honoring the person who died is a healthy coping mechanism. Give your teen photos or special keepsakes of your family member, or help them come up with ways to contribute during the funeral service. For example, you may arrange to plant a tree in the name of your loved one, or your child could be in charge of the eulogy.

 

If your family is coping with the loss of a loved one, reach out to Adzima Funeral Home for support during this difficult period. Based in Stratford, CT, their experienced, empathetic staff will help you create a funeral service that honors the life of the person you lost. They’re available 24/7 and have served the community for over 100 years. Learn more about their extensive services online or call (203) 375-2200 to speak with a funeral director today.