How is grief experienced in children?

A child, like an adult, can experience feelings of sadness and loss, and they understand these emotions to some extent. When children feel sad and it becomes overwhelming, they often cry as a way of expressing their emotions. Children have various ways or mediums of expressing their sorrow. For instance, if something makes them uncomfortable, they may easily start crying. However, after crying, they usually return to their normal state. Children prefer expressing their feelings through words and actions.

When children experience distress, they might show it through anger, confusion, changes in appetite, or sleep disturbances. If sadness deeply affects them, they may struggle to focus on tasks, which can hinder their future development. At that age, children need to study and focus on schoolwork, but sadness can make them lose interest, lower their self-confidence, and lead to depression—one of the worst states for a child.

As a guardian, it is essential to understand a child’s condition and take proper care of them. Communicate with the child regularly, especially about things they might not understand, and try to explain them. Build a friendly relationship with the child so they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. This way, you can identify their problems and help solve them easily. Through encouragement and motivation, the child can regain focus and engage positively in activities.

Thus, a child grows up learning from the experiences and knowledge shared by their guardians. It is crucial to ensure they do not experience overwhelming sadness and are given opportunities to stay happy and connected with their family. Always strive to provide an environment where the child feels cared for, understood, and supported.