Grief & Loss

Children tend to react differently to loss than adults. They may exhibit more behavioral and physical signs of grief. Preschool children do not tend to fully understand the nature of death and may believe that their loved one will come back. Young children frequently engage in "magical thinking", meaning that they believe they have more power than they do; they may believe that they caused the loss by something they did or thought. For example, a child may believe that by wishing someone was dead, she is responsible for that person’s subsequent death. It is also common for children to believe that their loved one has returned in the form of a ghost or spirit, or is still alive somewhere.

Interventions

UCCF has therapists who can help you and your child. Our Center has specialized in helping children and families cope with loss for over 18 years.

Resources

For more information on the aspects of grief and loss, and how they affect children and families, please investigate our Grief & Loss Resource section.

Make an Appointment

Additional information about any of our services can be obtained by calling (734) 764-9466 or sending an email to our intake coordinator, Adele Santeiu, L.L.M.S.W., asanteiu@umich.edu. When you are ready to make an appointment, just call the Center at (734) 764-9466.