After Reviewing the Information in This Toolkit: Considerations for Grief-Informed Practices
Use Grief-Informed Language: It is crucial to use language that is sensitive, respectful, and thoughtful when discussing grief and loss. Avoid terms that can unintentionally stigmatize or cause further distress to those grieving. For example, instead of using the phrase "committed suicide," it is more appropriate and compassionate to say "died by suicide." This shift in language helps to avoid the negative connotations associated with the word “committed,” which often implies wrongdoing or criminality. Using the term "died by suicide" is more neutral and respects the individual’s experience, making it easier for others to approach the topic with sensitivity.
Other examples of grief-informed language include:
"Died" rather than euphemisms that might seem dismissive of the gravity of the loss.
"Grieving" or "mourning" rather than terms like "moving on" or "getting over" to reflect the ongoing, non-linear nature of grief.
Avoiding the use of labels like "victim" in the case of suicide or overdose, as it reduces the person to their cause of death and does not honor the complexities of their life or the emotions of those left behind.
Grief-informed language helps create an environment of empathy and understanding, which is essential in supporting students, staff, and families during difficult times.
Collaborate with the Family on Information Sharing: When a student dies, it is essential for the school to collaborate with the family about what information will be shared within the school community. The family’s wishes should be at the center of any communications, as they may have strong feelings about how their loved one’s death is portrayed and what details are disclosed. This includes decisions about whether the student's name, the cause of death, or any other details are shared publicly.
The school should ensure the following:
Respect the family’s wishes: Understand that every family may have unique preferences on how information about their child’s death is communicated. Some families may wish to keep details private, while others may be more open.
Consider cultural and religious sensitivities: Recognize that different cultures or belief systems may impact the family's approach to grief and how they wish to handle the dissemination of information.
Coordinate messaging: When information is shared, it should be consistent across all channels—whether it’s a letter to parents, social media posts, or internal communications with staff and students. Ensuring consistency helps avoid confusion and miscommunication.
Clarify the cause of death only if appropriate: If the cause of death is a sensitive matter (such as suicide or overdose), it is crucial to have a discussion with the family about how much detail, if any, should be shared. Sometimes, focusing on the emotional impact and the need for support rather than the cause of death itself can be more helpful.
By working closely with the family, the school ensures that the communication reflects the family’s preferences while providing the appropriate support to those affected by the loss.
Resource List:
Here are some valuable resources to help your school community in supporting grieving students, staff, and families:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Phone: 1-800-273-8255 (now also available via text at 988) Provides immediate, confidential support to those in crisis and resources for schools.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): https://afsp.org resources on suicide prevention, postvention, and supporting those grieving a suicide.
The Dougy Center for Grieving Children & Families: https://www.dougy.org
programs, resources, and training to help schools and communities support grieving children.
Suicide Prevention Resource Center: https://www.sprc.org/A comprehensive source of information on suicide prevention, including postvention strategies for schools.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/Provides resources on mental health support and crisis response strategies.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this toolkit/blog is intended to serve as a general guide for schools and educators in supporting grieving students, staff, and families. It is not intended to replace professional counseling or crisis intervention services. Every situation is unique, and schools should consult with grief specialists, mental health professionals, and legal advisors when developing and implementing grief support protocols. Additionally, all information shared regarding a student’s death should be discussed with and approved by the family, as each family may have specific preferences for how information is communicated. The school’s role is to offer support and create a compassionate environment, while ensuring that families’ wishes are respected at all times.
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