Grief arrives in waves, and it’s okay, even necessary, to pause and let those waves wash over you rather than fight them. Surrendering to the moment, noticing your body and breath, or connecting with nature can restore balance and perspective. Even small gestures, like stepping outside to feel the sun, stretching, or sitting quietly with your feelings, ground you in the present and strengthen your ability to witness the young person’s grief.

• Sustainability: Supporting grief takes energy. Without tending to yourself, your ability to witness and hold space diminishes. Even small moments of care can help you stay present.

• Modelling healthy coping: Teens and young adults learn from what you do, not just what you say. Showing that it’s okay to feel, reflect, and care for oneself teaches them that self-compassion is part of navigating loss.

• Emotional regulation: Grief can trigger strong reactions sadness, guilt, anger, or even relief. Caring for yourself helps you respond with calm and patience rather than frustration or avoidance.

• Comfort and continuity: Practices like rituals, continuing bonds, and memories of the deceased can bring comfort to adults as well as young people, reminding us that love doesn’t disappear with loss.