Mind Matters Youth Resource Hub
Grief and Loss
Learn about different grief reactions and ways to seek support after a loss or major life change.
Grief can look different for everyone
Grief may follow a death, separation, displacement, illness, lost opportunity or another major change. People may feel sadness, anger, numbness, guilt, relief, fear or physical tiredness. Feelings can come and go and do not follow one fixed timetable.
Ways to support yourself
- Stay connected with at least one safe and trusted person.
- Keep simple routines for meals, sleep, movement and responsibilities.
- Use cultural, spiritual or family practices that feel meaningful and safe.
- Allow feelings without pressuring yourself to recover on another person's schedule.
- Limit harmful coping such as substance use, violence or complete isolation.
Supporting a grieving friend
Listen without forcing them to talk. Use the person's name if your friend is comfortable. Offer practical help and continue checking in after the first days, when other support may reduce.
Get additional help
Contact a qualified professional when grief remains overwhelming, prevents daily functioning, is linked to harmful substance use, or includes thoughts of self-harm or suicide. In immediate danger, use the emergency page.