I am amazed at the insensitivity of some people when death and loss occur. Do people think before they speak? I am going to presume people do not know what they do not know.
“WAKEUP Call”…Why Did You Say That?
Suicide Concepts & Terminology
When suicide touches close to home or you are in a position to help someone who is contemplating suicide, understanding a few terms and concepts will benefit you.
Committed suicide:
- It is common to say “you commit a robbery” or “commit a...
Suicide Facts and Introduction
Suicide has been a part of life for many years. History books, newspapers, and now social media sites all talk about suicide. Suicide touches people in all areas of life. No social, economical, sexual, educational or age boundaries exist when...
Reframing the Loss Experience can Help: What’s in Your Back Pack?
After a loss occurs many individuals view the experience one way and from that perspective the individual creates the context of how the grieving process “should” be. The key word here is “should”. Who puts the emphasis on “SHOULD”?
Does the...
Children dying; what do you say or do?
I am opening the door for discussion and thoughts on children dying from an illness or whatever reason.
Young children unable to talk can sense how others are reacting. Emotions carrying a heaviness of fear, anxiety and sadness are difficult for...
Do you AVOID someone who is dying?
“Oh, no” may be first thought that comes to mind when you realize someone is dying. The accompanying feeling of hollowness in the pit of your stomach may set the stage for subsequent decisions and choices made when asking the...
Younger Children and Loss
I won’t delve into the reality of many adults having their own anxieties about death which can hinder their ability to help children deal with death and loss. Cartoons tell it all, don’t they?
I am going...
Helping You with Children, Funerals and Grief
Frequently I am asked if a child should go to the funeral home. I will never tell someone what to do but, below I will offer a few points for consideration.
- Future emotional development can be affected...
Their Wishes and Hopes
“Coping with Grief” workshops involve participants identifying some of their concerns and feelings associated with grief and loss. It is common to hear words such as;
Anxiety ... Many Reasons for Missing Someone During the Holidays
We are entering what many people call the “Holiday Season”. When grief and loss are associated with this season the term “Joyful Spirits” may not be appropriate. What happens when you are unable to see loved ones for...