Death or loss involves losing someone or something. This person or thing may have been important in your life.
Understanding death and loss
You may experience the loss of a family member, a friend, a neighbour, a pet or something that was very important to you. When we are affected by a death or loss, we can experience a range of emotions. Talking about these feelings can help us to understand them.Â
Death can happen to anyone at any age, young or old. Someone can be sick for a long time before they die, or they can die suddenly. Other losses can include moving house, moving school, moving country, moving away from friends or the break-up of a family.
How might I feel?
- After a death or loss, you might feel sad, lonely or angry, or you might feel nothing. It can take time to understand how you feel.Â
- It is ok to cry.
- You might have questions that you would like to ask to help you understand what has happened. You have the right to talk to someone about how you are feeling.
- Is there an adult you trust who you can talk to?
- Childline is always here to listen to you and support you.
Other supports available include:​
rainbowsireland.ie
Rainbows Ireland is a free service for children and young people experiencing loss following bereavement and parental separation. Click the link above to see if there is a centre in your area.
barnardos.ie
Barnardos offer free bereavement support and information.​
jigsaw.ie
Jigsaw is the National Centre for Youth Mental Health. Jigsaw Services provide young people aged 12-25 with a place they can visit for free and confidential support from trained mental health professionals.​
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