WHEN A CHILD DIES, GRANDPARENTS OFTEN GRIEVE ALONE

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For review copy/media info: Beth Pulliam, 713-864-6647

Houston, TX -- Grieving grandparents experience both the loss of the grandchild and the helplessness of watching a beloved child suffer one of lifes deepest losses. Their grief, however, is often minimized or ignored by family and friends.
Nadine Galinsky, author of When a Grandchild Dies: What to Do, What to Say, How to Cope, says, Grandparents have the difficult task of supporting their bereaved children, who will be experiencing intense feelings for years after the death. Grandparents must take care of themselves to have the energy and stamina to cope with these difficult times." This includes proper nutrition, rest, and exercise, which often are ignored in times of overwhelming grief.
She suggests that grandparents create support systems outside of the family. We assume that because grandparents have reached a ripe old age, they should know how to handle anything! Many times family and friends wont even ask the grandparents how theyre doing. Grandparents may need to be particularly assertive with their friends to get the support they need. Also, grandparents need to know that many support groups, such as The Compassionate Friends, welcome grandparents at their meetings."
   How can grandparents tell if they or a family member have gone beyond normal grief? Abuse of alcohol or other drugs, comments about suicide, or extended periods of isolation are clues. While in most cases the intense feelings of grief are normal and natural, sessions with a grief therapist may be helpful for grandparents who are concerned that they or someone they love is no longer grieving in a healthy way."
   When a Grandchild Dies is the only full-length book available that addresses the unique grief of grandparents. It can be ordered through any bookstore or by calling 800-929-7889.
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