How to Help a Teen Through a Friend's Death

Hopefully your teenager will never have to deal with the death of a friend. However, the chances he'll have to are significant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 50 percent of teen deaths between 1999 and 2006 were caused by accidents, primarily car accidents. Murder, suicide and cancer comprised another 15 percent. A teen dealing with a friend's death may not only struggle with missing his friend, but also with comprehending mortality.

Instructions

    • 1

      Tell your child he can talk to you anytime. Encourage him to share his emotions with you, and don't become impatient if his grief goes on longer than you expected. When he talks, just listen. If he repeats the same things, try not to show impatience.

    • 2

      Monitor your teen vigilantly for signs of suicidal ideation, especially if his friend's death was a suicide. Although he'll need time alone to process his grief, excessive or sudden withdrawal from his family and friends or symptoms of depression are causes for concern.

    • 3

      Find a support group for grieving teens and encourage your child to attend. Offer to go with him if he wants you to, but don't be offended or persistent if he doesn't. He might find it easier to attend with another friend of the deceased.

    • 4

      Seek professional help if support groups aren't enough. A depressed teenager may need to see a psychologist one-on-one. Unless he's threatening suicide or homicide, don't force him to go before he's ready, but let him know that if he wants to see a counselor, you'll take him.

    • 5

      Encourage your teen to participate in activities that promote mindfulness and peace. Whether it's yoga or a church youth group, help him find time for peaceful contemplation and meditation.

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