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Parenting tweens and teens is challenging enough, but when someone in the family becomes seriously ill or dies, it can feel overwhelmingly difficult. In all honesty, we Westerners are terrible at talking about death, often avoiding it, so when it comes to talking with teenagers about the subject most of us don't feel equipped.

Many who have suffered a loss, or are suffering a serious illness will tell you that friends often fall away just at the time when they are most valued, because they're embarrassed or uncomfortable about the situation.

In this episode we draw on research, personal experience - and some incredible listener feedback - to discuss how to deal with a serious illness or death when you're raising a teen. We pass on some amazing tips that have made all the difference, and also some awful 'what not to do's'.

The episode is dedicated to the wonderful mum, Sophie Baker and her loving husband and boys, who are doing an amazing job in very difficult circumstances.

BOOKS:
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
The Bright Hour by Nina Riggs
You Can Stop Humming Now by Daniela Lamas
Being Mortal by Atul Gawande
Smoke gets in your Eyes by Caitlin Doughty
The Choice by Edith Eger

PODCAST:
https://audioboom.com/posts/6858679-talking-to-young-people-about-death-and-dying

https://hospiceofnorthidaho.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Supporting-a-Teen-When-Someone-is-Seriously-Ill.pdf
https://www.hospiscare.co.uk/how-we-help/advice-support/children-and-young-people/how-to-talk-about-death-with-children-and-teenagers/https://thegoodgriefproject.co.uk/
https://yourteenmag.com/health/teenager-mental-health/how-to-talk-about-death
https://whatsyourgrief.com/helping-a-teenager-deal-with-grief-2/
https://elunanetwork.org/resources/talking-to-teens-and-children-about-illness-and-death
https://www.strong4life.com/en/emotional-wellness/emotional-expression/talking-to-kids-and-teens-about-death
https://www.todaysparent.com/family/talking-about-death-with-k

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Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits.

My email is teenagersuntangled@gmail.com
My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me:
www.teenagersuntangled.com

Find me on Substack: https://teenagersuntangled.substack.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teenagersuntangled/
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/teenagersuntangled/

You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

Prepare for the Inevitable: The Guide to Grief for Parents of Tweens and Teens

Parenting Teenagers Untangled: The award-winning podcast for parents of tweens and teens, offering realistic, science-backed advice for calmer, more connected family life.

Prepare for the Inevitable: The Guide to Grief for Parents of Tweens and Teens