Feelings
What is grief?
The feelings and thoughts we experience when someone or something we love dies or is no longer with us
Should adults express their feelings in front of children?
yes-everyone grieves and need to express these feelings
Why do people cry when someone leaves?
Natural release of emotions; express sadness; feelings of sadness, hurt, worry, fear
Can a child's misbehaviour cause a parent to leave?
False- a child does not cause a parent to leave
What is the first stage of grief?
Denial-"The pretend game". When you go through loss, you may feel like pretending it never happened, refusing to accept the truth. It's a protective shield that helps you ease into the reality of loss at your own pace.
What is ambiguous loss?
Is a loss of someone or something that is unclear or uncertain. For instance, if we don't know where someone is.
When someone is very sad or upset, they may not want to talk and withdraw from others. What should you do if someone you knew did this?
Offer help; offer to spend time with them; play together; hang out; suggest they talk to someone; give them something to comfort them
What is a safe way to express angry feelings?
Physical activity (running, exercise, sports, jumping up and down); telling someone you trust; punching a pillow; screaming into a pillow; talking to a pet or stuffed animal
Is it normal to have a hard time believing that a person is not around?
yes- it often seems unreal or have times when you momentarily think the person is back or may come back
What is the second stage of grief?
Anger- "The fiery flames". Sometimes anger can consume you. You might redirect your anger at yourself, others, or even the situation itself. Remember, feeling angry is normal, but finding healthy ways to express it is very important.
Name 3 feelings children may have when someone they love dies?
sad, mad, scared, confused, worried, lonely, tired, guilty
Name 3 unhealthy ways to show feelings
hurting yourself or others, breaking things, breaking the law, name calling, swearing, using drugs or alcohol, being defiant, not going to school; taking risks;
What does it mean to be "laughing on the outside but crying on the inside?"
A person feels differently than they appear to others; not showing others how they really feel and look happy outside
Name 3 activities which can help someone feel better
What is the third stage of grief?
Bargaining- "The what if game". Sometimes, you try to strike a deal with the God. You might make promises or hope for a miracle to reverse what happened. It's a way of seeking control in the face of loss.
Who experiences grief?
Everyone who loves someone who has died or who loses them from something or who has lost something in their lives. Everyone experiences grief in their lives
Name 3 healthy ways to express grief?
Talking about it; drawing; writing; music; sports/exercise; crying; doing activities which help you feel close to them; seeking comfort; wearing their clothes
Does everyone cry when someone leaves? Why or why not?
no- everyone expresses feelings differently and crying is only one way to express feelings
How long does grief last?
grief does not end-it changes and occur less often and less intensely, but occurs from time to time in grief bursts
What is the fourth stage of grief?
Depression- "the stormy clouds". You might feel sad for a long time. You might experience a low mood that can feel overwhelming. It's ok to feel sad, and reaching out to others for support can lighten the load.
Name 3 places in the body where someone might feel their feelings
head, heart, neck, chest, arms, shoulders, eyes, mouth, stomach
If a friend's family member is no longer in their life, what advice would be helpful?
It's okay to talk about it; I understand how you feel; having fun is helpful; it won't feel like this forever; It's ok feel all of your feelings and express them to others
Why do children sometimes hide their feelings?
Embarassment; fear of how others will respond; no one to talk to; don't want to upset others or get in trouble; feeling like talking about it will make them more upset
How do we stay connected to someone after losing them?
create something in their memory; pictures; videos; do activities you shared; talk about them with others
What is the fifth stage of grief?
Acceptance- "The calm after the storm". After the storm passes, a sense of calmness settles in, you come to terms with your loss. It doesn't mean you forget or stop missing who or what you lost, but you find peace within yourself. You learn to embrace life again and move forward while cherishing the memories.