Grief through the Experiences of Young People | ACAMH Learn

Transcript

[MUSIC PLAYING] I felt utterly, just devastated. I couldn't control my emotions very well. I thought he was alive for about two months after. I couldn't come to terms with it. I just didn't believe it. [MUSIC PLAYING] It's a really, really important to not judge people for their grieving process because everyone grieves differently. Every day, it can be really different. Sometimes you just want to be left alone and just want to hide and just feel by yourself. And sometimes you want to talk. You have to be cautious with the terminologies, the words you use. People came to me and say, be strong. Am I not allowed to feel things? Am I not allowed to feel vulnerable? I needed someone to be very realistic with me. And although it was a very difficult conversation, sometimes it's just good to be Black and White, so then you can properly start the grieving process. In terms of what worked, it was definitely being put in touch with other kids all age that have been through the same thing. Death is such a taboo. People aren't taught to talk about it. So I made it my own mission to speak to my friends and make it something we talk about for it to be OK. By bringing her up casually-- yeah, she's then part of my life as well. One of my teachers was just so switched on with it all. If me and my brother ever looked a little bit like we weren't quite OK, they would come over and chat with us. They would say, do you need some time out? My best advice would be that it is OK to feel. If you are doing something that is happy, then you're allowed to be happy. Not a lot of people will understand the grief that you feel, and therefore really can't tell you how you should be feeling. So definitely it would be. Feel what you want to. [MUSIC PLAYING]

Grief through the Experiences of Young People

Duration: 2 mins Publication Date: 16 May 2024 Next Review Date: 16 May 2027 DOI: 10.13056/acamh.13838

Description

This short documentary offers a powerful and heartfelt exploration of grief through the voices of young people who have experienced the death of someone close to them. Through their personal stories, they share what grief has felt like, the emotional and physical symptoms they’ve faced, and how their journeys through loss have unfolded over time. The film highlights the importance of seeking support — from talking to trusted adults to accessing professional help — and includes thoughtful reflections on what has helped them cope. Viewers will also hear candid advice for other children going through grief, as well as guidance for adults on how to offer meaningful support. Featuring the work of Winston’s Wish, the film sheds light on the vital resources available and encourages open, compassionate conversations around death and bereavement.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand how grief can affect children and young people emotionally, mentally, and physically

2. Hear directly from young people about their personal experiences with loss and bereavement

3. Recognise the varied ways grief may present in children and that everyone’s grieving process is different

4. Gain insight into what young people find helpful or unhelpful when supported by adults during times of grief

5. Learn practical advice young people would give to others going through similar experiences

6. Understand the importance of talking about grief and seeking professional support when needed

7. Become familiar with the resources and support offered by Winston’s Wish and other charities for grieving children and families

8. Learn how to approach conversations about death and grief with empathy and sensitivity

About this Lesson

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none

Publication Type:

Interviews

Level:

Introductory

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