How to Cope With a Teen's Death

Losing a friend or family member is devastating, and when coping with a teen's death you may experience a variety of emotions. There may be sadness, anger, depression and even guilt. The grieving process may last a few months or it may last a lifetime. Follow these steps to begin coping with a teen's death.

Instructions

• 1

  Write down feelings and emotions in a journal. Express your concerns, worries and maybe even the guilt you are experiencing. Writing down these feelings will help in the healing process. If talking to someone is not an option, journaling can help if you wish to express an emotion or a concern.

• 2

  Crying helps when coping with a teen's death. It releases emotions, allowing the body and the mind to heal. Withholding tears and feelings can ultimately cause an increase in sadness and depression, which may lead to an even longer healing process.

• 3

  Talk to others about the teen's death, how you feel and any guilt you may be experiencing. It's not good to hold these emotions inside. You may choose to confide in a trusted friend, family member, therapist or even a member of your church community.

• 4

  Accept the feelings and emotions. You do not have to like what is going on around you but acknowledging what happened and how you plan on dealing with it, is a step in the right direction. It may take days, months or even years to accept the death of a teen.

• 5

  Avoid taking drugs or abusing alcohol as this will only magnify the depression and anger you may be feeling. Find other avenues of release such as exercising, calling a friend, writing in your journal and even looking at old photographs.