To help schools support grieving students, the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) compiled a list of common responses to grief that include emotional (for example: anger, sadness, anxiety, guilt, relief), cognitive (for example: distraction, attention span, decline in performance, memory problems), physical (for example: illness, sleep disturbance, crying and sighing, eating disturbance, heaviness), and social (for example: changes in personality, changes in relationships, withdrawal, acting out, aggression, regression) grief reactions.
The intensity and persistence of all grief reactions should be monitored. Professional support might be indicated if severe reactions are noted.
Though there are common responses after a loss experience, it is important to note that relationships are unique and responses will be as distinctive as the bond between two people.
Resource link: www.nasponline.org
Best,
Lynne
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