What Not to Say Even those with the best intentions might say something inappropriate to the bereaved. Expert Robbie Kaplan offers tips on phrases and sentiments to avoid when comforting a grieving friend.


Writing a Condolence Note to a Grieving Child or Adolescent A child suffering the loss of a parent or sibling is likely to be in great need of personal attention. An adult who recognizes this can make a lasting impression by writing a personal note to that child, says grief expert Helen Fitzgerald.

Children and Funerals Florence Isaacs tackles a father's question about whether or not it's appropriate for a young child to attend a funeral. Children can be a great comfort to mourners, but will the funeral be too scary?


Comfort Quickies: Self Care While Grieving During grieving, it is common to need breaks from our emotions. This in no way dishonors the seriousness of our concerns and the memories of our loved one. The Center for Grief Recovery offers suggestions for what you can do to cope with the stress that comes with grieving.

The Art of Losing Healing our grief means continuing to love in the face of loss, says author Deborah Coryell. We break but we break open so that we can include more of life, more of love.


I'll Be Seeing You Marta Felber writes, "The man coming toward me on the street looked like Joe. I stood staring, my breath coming in little gasps...What I wouldn’t give to see Joe walking toward me again!"


Seasons of Grief According to Rev. Sarah York, it's important to acknowledge that grief endures well beyond the funeral. She sees in Jewish mourning rituals and traditions a model that understands that grief is a journey that takes time and that grievers need the support of friends and family along the way.

Myths About Grief Psychologist Therese Rando has found that the myths and unrealistic expectations that society maintains for grievers are some of the worst problems any griever has. Many feel that they should be “over” their grief long before they ever could be.

The Physical Stress of Grieving Grieving is hard work and takes a huge toll on our bodies, says author Elizabeth Harper Neeld. When we experience a loss, a very ancient reaction is triggered in our brain: the fight-or-flight response.

Do I Have to Cry to Grieve? "My father died recently. I have been very sad, but I have not cried. Do I have to cry to grieve?" No, say experts Russell Friedman and John James. We all grieve in our own way and at our own pace.

The Grieving Child, written by educator Helen Fitzgerald, is a helpful guide for anyone helping a child cope with grief and loss.

Read our review of The Grieving Child
by Helen Fitzgerald
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