How to Ease a Child's Anxiety About Dying

It is natural for people to worry or stress over the thought of dying, but children may tend to get anxious about the subject more than adults. The recent death of a pet, a movie or an overheard conversation may be the trigger of the child's anxiety. Children worry about losing siblings, parents, grandparents---and sometimes even friends. A child may develop anxiety over the thought of her own death. Talking to the child about anxiety and learning why he feels a certain way may ease most worries and concerns.

Instructions

    • 1

      Answer the child's questions honestly. If you are unable to answer a specific question, find someone who will know the answer. Gently tell the child that there is no reason to be overly anxious about dying, and let her know it is okay to feel sad.

    • 2

      Question the child about the fears he may have about dying. Ask what is bothering her and why. If a recent death in the family has occurred, talk to the child about that death and the circumstances surrounding it.

    • 3

      Refrain from giving the child a long explanation regarding death---offer simple, brief answers. Make sure the child understands and gets answers to any questions he may have, and be patient during the conversation.

    • 4

      Allow the child to express any feelings she may have about death. If the child becomes emotional from the death or illness of a loved one, encourage the child to be open regarding all thoughts, concerns and feelings. Comfort the child and be sensitive to his anxiety.

    • 5

      Avoid taking children younger than five to a funeral. At this age, a child may not understand death---and the thought of it can become confusing and may even cause anxiety. Explain to children over five that they will most likely witness people who are sad or even crying.

    • 6

      Be prepared to answer the child's questions regarding what happens after death. She may ask where the body of a dead person goes after dying. Answer according to your individual religious beliefs. A direct answer may help ease the anxiety, instead of offering an explanation that will lead to more questions.

    • 7

      Seek a comfortable balance during a conversation about death with a child. Children are especially vulnerable during emotional times. Although it is important to be honest and upfront with children regarding death and dying, answers to a five-year-old may be different from those for twelve-year-old.

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