How to Grieve for the Loss of a Child

The death of a child is one of the most difficult things a parent will ever have to deal with. In fact, the death of a child is something that most people will think about every day for the rest of their lives. Grieving in a healthy way is important to help cope with this terrible loss.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Grief counselor
• A memorial fund
• Friends and family members
• Picture of your child or an item that belonged to them

1. Find closure. One of the easiest things to do to find closure is simply say goodbye to your child at a funeral. It's OK to talk to a tombstone or picture.
2. Cry. It's fine to be sad when you think about your child, but don't let it disrupt your daily life too much.
3. Consider speaking at your child's funeral.
4. Talk to a grief counselor. A grief counselor can help to answer your questions and allow you to learn healthy ways to remember your child.
5. Talk to other family members about the death. Chances are that you're not the only person grieving, so spend some time talking with others about the child you've lost.
6. Remember the happy times. Your child wouldn't want you to be sad, and remembering the times when you've had fun together can help you grieve in a healthy way.
7. Keep an item that reminds you of your child. This can be anything from a picture to one of his or her personal items.
8. Set up a memorial fund in honor of your child so their friends can make donations to a charity they liked or supported.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to always be respectful of the others grieving for your child, even if you do not get along with them.
• Don't forget your other children, if you have them. Although the loss of one child is devastating, you should focus on loving your other children as well. Remember that they’ve lost someone they love too, and staying close will help you recover from the loss.
• If you are having thoughts of suicide or otherwise feel you can't deal with the grief, talk to your doctor or counselor immediately.