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teens and death

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO SHOW SUPPORT
                                                                                                                            

If a friend has experienced the death of someone special, you may find yourself struggling with how to support them.

Being a friend carries responsibility and your friend will need your loving support for a long time.

The more you know about grief, the less overwhelmed you will feel and you will be
better able to reach out.


If you have had experience with death yourself, you might know something about what your friend is going through, but it is important to remember that grief is as unique as a fingerprint. Your experience of grief may not be the same as your friend’s experience.

SOME SUPPORTIVE IDEAS
                                   

                 Attending the funeral,
​memorial service or Life Celebration


If you can handle it, your friend may want you at the Life Celebration, Funeral or Memorial Service. If it is more than you can cope with, offer to prepare food or assist after the service.
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Send a card or short note even if you have been with your friend.
Notes are often reread and treasured.
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  Acknowledge your friend’s pain.
                                                                                                                                                                        
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Statements such as, “I am here to listen.” And “I am sorry.” are supportive.

Even “I know you are hurting and I don’t know what to say.” is okay.

Ask your friend if they would like to talk about their special person. Respect their choice if your friend does not want to talk.

Give your friend control over what you say to other people. Ask your friend what information is okay to pass on to other people.

Other Ways to Help
                                

Paying attention to school work is difficult when in the grief process. Your friend may need help with homework or studying for a test.

If your friend talks about wanting to die or has behaviors that are harmful to them share this information with an adult.

Sometimes your friend may appear to be like their old self. Other times they may express anger or sorrow. This is normal. Be there for your friend through all of the ups and downs.





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