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Noticing Signs of Stress

Take note of these signs that a child may need additional help during the grieving process.

Sometimes, children who are grieving can have especially severe reactions. You’ll naturally want to watch kids closely to get as clear a picture as possible of how they’re doing.

Children may:

  • have nightmares or scary thoughts, either in general or about the way the loved one died,
  • fixate on the circumstance of the person’s death,
  • not want to talk about the death or anything (even happy memories) about the deceased person, and
  • experience problems with “hyperarousal,” such as trouble sleeping, poor concentration, excessive irritability, or developing new fears.

Parents know their children and their behavior best. If any of these problems are causing concern, reach out for help right away.