SchoolTV -

Academic Care and Wellbeing

Grief and Loss

Grief is a natural response to loss. It might be the loss of a loved one, relationship or even a pet. The more significant the loss, the more intense the grief is likely to be. Children and adults grieve differently due to their developmental stage, and this can be difficult for parents to understand. It goes without saying, that parent's own grief and loss history is significant as well and can impact how they perceive, understand and respond to their child's experience. 

 

 

Young children fluctuate in and out of the stages of grief rapidly, as they may not comprehend the permanency death. They express their grief more physically. Teens on the other hand may not know how to express their grief and will need some space to process their loss. Some may choose to grieve alone, not wanting to stand out or be seen as not coping. Whilst others, who may have a greater understanding, can start to question their own mortality.

 

In this edition of SchoolTV, parents can learn how to acknowledge their child’s feelings and the best way to support them through the grief. In addition to the information provided for parents through SchoolTV, the Academic Care and Wellbeing team at Mater Dei Catholic College is also able to offer Seasons for Growth, a group program designed to support young people who are grieving. If your child has experienced a loss 12 or more months ago and you think they would benefit from a structured and supportive program that creates a safe and reflective processing space, please let your child's House Leader know.

 

 

 

More information about Seasons for Growth is attached:

 

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition of SchoolTV and give some consideration to whether you think your child might benefit from the Seasons for Growth program. You are welcome to contact me through the front office if you have any questions or feedback. 

 

 

Ms Anne Hodkinson | College Psychologist