The Light Beyond

Grief books and resources for teens

A recent post on the Light Beyond bereavement forum reminded me that grieving teens can often feel very alone; as if it isn't sometimes hard enough being a teen without having to handle the loss of a loved one!

Amongst other points, the post in question (click the link above to read it) stated "There aren't any books that relate to me, I'm not a child and not really an adolescent any more, but all the adult books speak of people in their 30s and 40s. I feel so alone and no-one can relate."

Here's my reply:

"You asked if anyone knew of any books which might help you - well, in the Light Beyond bookstore there's a section on books just for teens so I hope you might be able to relate to some of those. Click here to go straight to the teens section of the bookstore.

I did a bit of research in the Internet for you and also found this:
http://www.udel.edu/DSP/SGCF/books.html

There actually are quite a few books out there for teens..."

Another useful resource for this visitor (who lives in the UK) was this:

http://www.rd4u.org.uk/
RD4U is a website designed for young people by young people. It is part of Cruse Bereavement Care's Youth Involvement Project and is here to support people after the death of someone close.

RD4U means the 'road for you' - the main aim of the site is to let you find your own 'road' to dealing with your loss.

I hope these resources may also be of use to you, or someone you love.

Children and teens: growing up with grief

I've come across a few interesting articles lately about 'grief camps' or 'bereavement camps' and how they can help children and teens cope better with their loss. I hope that some of you might find them useful too...

http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/heraldnews/lifestyles/509438,4_5_JO15_GRIEFCAMP_S1.article

http://blog.mlive.com/kalamazoo_gazette_extra/2007/08/journey_through_grief_art_camp.html

http://archive.gulfnews.com/articles/07/08/11/10145672.html