Children react and handle loss in a different way than adults, according to the University Behavioral HealthCare (UBHC), Traumatic Loss Coalitions for Youth Program.
Common reactions to a sudden tragedy include shock, denial, anger, shame, physical problems, guilt and academic performance problems.
UBHC has some recommendation on how adults can help a grieving child:
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- Create a space for the child to freely express his or her reaction the event
- Clearly communicate the truth about what happened
- Initiate conversations about the topic, rather than avoiding the issue
- Encourage physical activities that can help relieve some of the built-up anger and emotion
- Try to resume the child's normal schedule and return order and control to their life
- Allow your child to attend memorial services so that they can find support in other grieving individuals
- Make sure your child understands that it's OK to enjoy life and continue to live
- Try to make your child understand that their feelings can't cause another person's death. Often children worry their behavior caused the tragedy
See attached document for more information of traumatic loss for youth or visit www.griefspeaks.com.
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