During the teen years, mature reactions to death as well as skills to survive loss begin to develop. Abstract concepts and feelings about an afterlife take shape. Adolescent tendencies to idealize or romanticize make grief feelings even more intense.  Teens, as well as younger children, may exhibit physical symptoms; these complaints often reflect a need for nurturing. 

Adolescent grief, particularly over the loss of a parent, is often complicated by developmental issues.  Teen-age individuation may have stretched the parent child relationship, creating significant amount of unfinished business when a parent dies.  Anger, guilt, and depression are often significantly magnified in adolescent grief. 
 

Pay Particular Attention to: 

• Apathy and withdrawal from family and friends
• Indications of alcohol or drug abuse
• Significant drop in school performance
• Preoccupation with or idealizing violence or death
• Unusually good behavior and a relentless need to please

Any verbalization of suicidal thoughts 

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