Grief and Loss

The grieving process Grief – express deep sadness because of loss 5 stages of grieving process Denial: gives you a chance to think Anger: normal (anger management) Bargaining: promise to change Depression: short term is normal Acceptance: learn how to live with the loss

Funerals, Wakes, and Memorial Services Purpose: Help the family get through the grieving process. Wake – view or watch over deceased person before funeral. Funeral – ceremony in which deceased person is buried. Memorial Service – ceremony to remember the deceased.

What are some different things you’ve seen at funerals or memorials?

What are some physical and emotional effects of stress? Coping with Loss Loss can cause stress. What are some physical and emotional effects of stress? Headaches, stomachaches, increased blood pressure, irritability, interrupted sleep, confusion, inability concentrating, stress related illness.

Help for dealing with loss Helping yourself Get plenty of rest/relaxation and stick to any normal routine Share memories Express your feelings Don’t blame yourself Connect with supportive, understanding people Helping others Show your support through simple actions Let the person know you are there for him/her Tell the person they are strong and will learn to live with the loss Listen attentively without judgment Encourage professional help if needed

Suicide and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI)

A permanent solution to a temporary problem. SUICIDE: Words that warn: “I wish I were dead.” “I just want to go to sleep & never wake up.” “I won’t be a problem for you much longer.” “I can’t take it anymore.” “This pain will be over soon.” “Nothing matters.” Definition: the act of intentionally taking one’s life Why is suicide an uncomfortable topic? What are some myths or facts about suicide?

Facts about suicide Many people who consider suicide only do so for a brief period in their life Most people who have attempted and failed are usually grateful to be alive Suicide could have many warning signs – however, sometimes there are few signs Use of drugs/alcohol can put people at risk because of impaired judgment

Facts about Suicide Cont. 3rd leading cause of death for ages 15 – 24 Depression and bipolar disorder are major risk factors. Stressful life events and low levels of communication with parents are also significant risk factors. More women attempt suicide and more men complete suicide. In 2010, males aged 15-19 were 4X more likely to complete suicide than females.

Keep in mind! It should be noted that some people who die by suicide do not show any suicide warning signs. But, about 75 percent of those who die by suicide do exhibit some warning signs, so being aware of these warning signs means we will be more able to assist a loved one in need. If you do see someone exhibiting warning signs of suicide, you need to do everything you can to help them, which often includes connecting them with professional help. Suicide.org

Warning signs for suicide Feeling hopeless Withdrawing from family and friends; isolating Neglecting basic needs Experiencing loss of energy Taking more risks Using alcohol and drugs Giving away personal things

Giving and Getting Help Take all talk of suicide seriously Tell your friend you are concerned about them Help your friend identify 1-2 adults to talk to (i.e. parent, counselor), and offer to go with them if they’re nervous Don’t keep concern for a friend’s safety a secret – don’t promise to keep secrets when one’s safety is involved **VIDEO

N.S.S.I. Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Common forms of NSSI: Cutting, burning, scratching, skin-picking, hair-pulling 90% of people who self-injure begin cutting as teens Self-injury is prevalent in ALL races and economic backgrounds.

Differentiating NSSI and Suicide Attempts Characteristic Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Suicide Attempt Intent/Purpose for Behavior To temporarily escape from psychological distress. To create change in self or environment. To permanently terminate consciousness/end of life. To escape unbearable psychological pain. Severity/Lethality of Method Use Low High Behavior Frequency High, sometimes more than 100 episodes. Often chronic and repetitive. Low typically 1 to 3 episodes. Number of Methods Used Multiple methods used across episodes. Single method used across episodes. Cognitive State During Self-harm Distressed yet hopeful. Difficulty implementing adaptive problem-solving. Hopeless/Helpless. Inability to problem solve. Consequences/Aftermath Intrapersonally Sense of relief, calm. Temporarily reduced distress. Frustration, disappointment. Increased distress. Interpersonally Rejection, criticism from others. Other express care and concern.