My friend’s husband passed away over the weekend after experiencing head trauma from a fall.  While my friend is grieving as adults do, her daughter may need special care as she copes with the sudden loss of her stepfather.  We have already talked about grief counseling for the teenager because when a child at that age loses someone close to them, their already fragile emotional state can be shattered.

According to Hospice, there are several signs that parents must watch for when a teen is in a state of grieving.  Parents should watch for dropping grades, depression, risk taking, too much sleeping (or not enough), slipping relationships with family and friends, and denying that there is a problem.

One of the best things to do is talk openly about the loss of a loved one.  Do not hesitate to seek help from a trained therapist, group counseling, or a church group.  Teenagers are naturally social beings and by spending time with other people who understand the pain they are feeling, they will be able to cope more easily and eventually recover.

Another option to consider is a “bereavement camp” for children ages 7 to 17.  Located in California, Texas, Virginia, New Jersey and Massachusetts, the camps are free of charge and “include confidence building programs and age-based support groups that break the emotional isolation grief often brings.”

For more information about the camp, visit their website here.