Helping a Teenager With a Friend's Death

When death claims a friend, a teenager will need all the support and encouragement possible to help her grieve the loss. Although coming to terms with death is never easy, a teenager can have particular issues that make this grieving more challenging, such as a fragile emotional position and an inability to cope effectively with stress, according to the Hospicenet website.

  1. Offer Support

    • Approach your teenager as soon as possible to offer your support, suggests Riverside Community Care. You might tell the teen how sorry you are about the loss and offer a hug, if appropriate. Extend your support and help in whatever way possible, telling her that you are available for listening, talking or just being with her while she proceeds through the grieving process. Offer to accompany your child to a funeral or memorial service.

    Encourage Interaction

    • A teenager might react to a death by pulling away and isolating himself. It can be helpful for a teen to continue to interact with peers and the school staff after the death of a friend, reports the Hospicenet website. Encourage your child to spend time with friends and to attend any meetings or gatherings scheduled by the school, because this can be an effective way to grieve and receive support from others. When teenagers are grieving, they can find comfort and safety in their routines.

    Stay Available

    • The grieving process is different for everyone, according to the Kids Health website. Some people want to talk about their feelings, while others turn inward with pain. The intensity of grief may remain strong for a long time or it might dissipate relatively quickly. Stay available for your teenager during the grieving process so she feels your support and presence. Just being home when your teenager is home ̵1; even if no talking occurs ̵1; may be comforting for her. Try to touch base with your teenager every day so she feels your presence and support. This may encourage her to open up and talk if she wishes.

    Observe Carefully

    • The grieving process can lead to behavioral and emotional issues. A teenager might begin exhibiting risky or self-destructive behavior, such as drinking, self-harm or abusing drugs in the hope of escaping the pain. A teenager might also show symptoms of depression, including a change in sleep habits and academic performance and problems getting along with friends and family. If you see any of these behaviors, consider having your child evaluated by a professional to get him help with the grieving process.

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