Trigger - teen grief

[JayhawkGirl]

PDQ
I have some ideas but would love some outside inputs.

DS (14/HS) has a classmate whose sibling is nearing the end of a terminal health condition that was diagnosed about a year ago. (Trying to be vague so I apologize if I’ve worded this inappropriately).

DS has only known this classmate during this journey, and they aren’t hang out/talk outside of class friends. But they do have a core class together and sit together. I’d like to review with DS what grief can look like, things to consider and say/not say, in a teen friendly way.

If you have any links/articles/infographics you think might help me parent him about this, and help him be a supportive classmate, I would appreciate it. Thank you.

[maudefindlay]

If there is a visitation and your DS can handle that, it would be nice for him to go so that the friend has people showing up just for him. I also think letting your son know this friend may be "ok" one day and not wanting to talk the next. That they need to grant some grace/not take it personaly as what they are dealing with isn't about your DS.

[countthestars]

I’m so sorry . I don’t have any advice. Thinking of your DS and his friend.

[pinkpeony08]

I’m so sorry. I would reach out to your local pediatric hospital and ask if they have a child life specialist you can speak to. They would have recommendations and resources.

[georgeglass]

I'm so sorry.

We have a bunch of resources we use at work - let me know if these links don't work.
Resources for Teens in Grief
Understanding Teen Grief
Dougy Center - Grief Resources
National Alliance for Children’s Grief
Supporting a Grieving Teenager

[jobae1234]

To guide your son in how to be a good friend, tell him about Ring Theory. Comfort in, dump out. This will help you too if you’ve never seen it!

www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/laugh-cry-live/201809/how-respond-people-in-crisis-comfort-in-dump-out?amp