Ways To Support Grieving Teens

Supporting middle school and high school students through grief can be challenging, but your understanding and presence can make a significant difference. Showing that you are there for them for when they feel ready or the need to discuss how they are feeling. Below are a few ways to navigate this alongside a teen in your life.

Acknowledge Their Feelings

Grieving teens might experience a mix of emotions such as guilt, stress, embarrassment, worry, or loneliness. Let them know it’s okay to feel these things and that their feelings are valid. Encourage open, non-judgmental conversations where they feel safe to express what they’re going through. Validate their feelings and thank them for sharing so honestly.

Be Patient and Present

Sometimes, teens might withdraw or seem distant. Respect their need for space but also remind them you’re there for support. Small gestures like checking in, listening without offering solutions unless requested, and simply being present can provide comfort.

Support Balance and Self-Care

When workload or commitments become overwhelming—whether schoolwork, sports, or household responsibilities—it’s important to prioritize self-care. Encourage them to take breaks, breathe, and ask for help when needed. Suggest manageable steps, like breaking tasks into smaller parts or taking short walks to clear their mind. Making schools aware of what the teen is going through can also be incredibly helpful. It is always important to inform the teen before doing this as they can have agency over how it is communicated and if they want it to be addressed at school. It can be incredibly distressing for a teacher to come up and say how sorry they are to hear what they are going through without a heads up.

Understand Their Perspective on Distraction

Some students may find it hard to focus on studies, feeling like it’s too much, while others might find distraction helpful as a temporary escape. Respect how they choose to cope, and help them find healthy outlets—whether it’s sports, art, music, or simply talking.

Navigating Social Interactions

Interacting with friends can feel confusing for grieving teens. They may worry about what others understand or how they should act. I often see grieving teens saying “i’m fine” in their social group when that might not actually be the case. Encourage honest communication if they feel comfortable even with one close friend. It’s okay if they don’t feel like having fun at times—grief changes how they feel about socializing, and that’s normal. Let them know that they can say no with or without explanation.

Encourage Professional Support

If their grief seems overwhelming or persistent, suggest they talk to a therapsit, school therapist, or support group. Sometimes, professional help can provide additional tools and a safe space for processing complex feelings. Youth and teen support groups are excellent to help with the feeling of being alone. Death Doulas can also be a safe place for teens to share their feelings openly and honestly.

Reassure Them

Finally, remind teens that grief is a process with ups and downs. There’s no right or wrong way to feel, and healing takes a lifetime. Their feelings are part of their own unique experience, and it’s okay to seek help and lean on others.

Being patient, compassionate, and understanding can greatly ease their path through grief. Your support can help them feel less alone as they navigate this difficult time.