Grief doesn’t just hurt emotionally — it shakes the foundations of a young person’s assumptions. As psychologist Ronnie Janoff-Bulman explains, we rely on certain core beliefs to navigate life: the world is safe, life is meaningful, I am worthy of love. When someone close dies, these assumptions can feel fragile or broken. Your young person may wonder: “If this could happen, what else is possible?” or “Who can I rely on?”

Here, your steady presence is life-giving. It signals: The world may feel unpredictable, but you are not alone. Consistent small acts — a routine chat, a shared meal, a quiet walk — communicate safety and stability even when the world feels uncertain.
Trauma-informed care emphasizes safety, trust, and empowerment.

• Predictability: Maintaining routines, like meals, school, and extracurricular activities, provides grounding. Predictable patterns help teens regain a sense of stability in a world that suddenly feels uncontrollable.

• Presence: Consistently showing up — whether through conversation, shared activities, or simply being nearby — communicates safety. Presence validates that they are not alone.

• Boundaries: Even amidst chaos, clear boundaries provide security. Teens may test limits; responding with calm consistency models emotional regulation and reinforces safety.

Reflective exercise: Identify small, consistent routines you can maintain. How can you communicate stability and presence through everyday actions?