Losing a loved one is never easy, no matter your age. For teens, coping with grief and loss can be especially difficult. They may feel isolated and alone, like no one understands what they’re going through. Grief can also manifest itself in unexpected ways, such as angry outbursts and depression. Even things like a breakup or a pet’s death can trigger intense feelings of grief.
Fortunately, there are healthy ways to cope with grief and loss. Equipped with the right tools, teens can begin to work through their grief in a healthy way. Learn more about dealing with loss from the team at Ascend.
How Grief & Loss Can Impact Teens
Grief is a natural response to any kind of loss. Whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or something else, grief is a normal and healthy way to process these types of events. However, grief can also be a very difficult and confusing emotion to deal with.
Teens may experience grief differently than adults, and they often have a harder time expressing their emotions when related to loss. Whether they act out in anger or become withdrawn, it’s important to remember that every teen experiences grief differently, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve.
Grief & Mental Health
Grief can impact a teen’s mental health in a number of ways. It can lead to depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Teens may also struggle with substance abuse as a way to avoid or minimize their pain. If a teen is struggling to cope with grief and loss, it’s essential to seek professional help. Talking with a therapist or counselor can be very helpful for teens working through grief.
Four Healthy Ways to Cope with Grief and Loss
If you’re searching for healthy ways to cope with grief and loss, consider these helpful strategies:
1. Talk About Your Feelings
It can be a relief to express what you’re feeling, whether it’s to a friend, family member, therapist, or anyone else you trust. Talking about your grief can help you to process and move past it.
2. Write About Your Feelings
If you’re uncomfortable talking about your grief, you can also express yourself through writing. Writing can be a cathartic experience that can help you to make sense of your grief and deal with loss.
3. Be Active
Exercise is a great way to cope with the stress of grief and help you release pent-up emotions. You can take a walk, go for a run, or do yoga for some quick relief. Whatever form of exercise you choose, it can help to boost your mood and give you a sense of control during a difficult time.
4. Seek Professional Help
If you’re struggling to cope with your grief and loss, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide support and guidance as you work through your grief.
Hope and Healing at Ascend
These are just a few coping strategies that can help teens deal with the negative emotions associated with the pain of loss. Remember that there is no right or wrong way to grieve, as grief is an individual experience, and each person will deal with it in their own way.
If you think you or a loved one needs additional support during a difficult time, Ascend is here with another solution. Consider residential treatment to discover a place where teens can reset and refocus while confronting their painful emotions. For more information about our programs, please reach out to us at 310.388.3713 to learn more.
