Learning Target: I can summarize the grieving process I can recognize how to help a friend who is dealing with loss or depression Success Criteria: I can state the five stages of grief I can list what affects us when we mourn I know how to help a friend who is dealing with loss or depression Entry Task What are different types of loss?
Stage 1: Denial Initial reaction to loss Person cannot believe that the loss has happened Stage 2: Anger “Why me?” stage Person can be critical, demanding, or uncooperative Stage 3: Bargaining Anger subsides as the reality of the loss sets in Person may pray or promise to change if the person or object is brought back
Stage 4: Depression Silence and withdrawal Person is no longer in disbelief and is no longer angry, but now is feeling extreme sadness Quiet sadness sets in Person feels helpless Stage 5: Acceptance Person now feels a sense of power Person finds a way to deal with the loss in a constructive way Person may make meaningful gestures surrounding the idea of the loss
Kubler - Ross Hope – runs through all stages. Hope keeps alive the thought that somehow someday the situation, item, or person may be returned.
Family/Friends Relationship with each other Support system Connection to the Deceased Close relationship vs. acquaintance Nature of the Death How the individual died Natural causes vs. traumatic event Expected vs. unexpected
Consumed with thoughts of the deceased Becomes overly depressed Becomes a risk-taker Talks of suicide Hygiene changes Removes self from friends Drugs/Alcohol abuse Depression – Warning signs: Low motivation Feelings of worthlessness Sadness Guilt Suicidal thoughts Isolation Changes in behavior Drug use
Be available to talk or just be with the person when you’re needed. Let them know you are there for them! Be a good listener – don’t ask probing questions! Avoid making suggestions about how something else will make up for the loss. Be patient – the person may need to be alone for a little bit. Talk about the death/loss; share fond memories. Respect how the other person grieves even if it’s different than your own way of grieving. Write a note, letter, card, or . Let them know that you care and that you’re there for them. Be willing to get them help!
Someone at school Teacher Counselor Clergy member Psychologist … school or professional Doctor … especially if a person is experiencing serious, ongoing depression Hotlines Friends/family Community classes, clubs, and programs