This numbness or form of denial is an important coping mechanism and should be respected. In months to come, the numbness will fade and they will need you more than ever. If the teenager witnesses a traumatic death, this state of shock and disbelief could last for months. Be prepared for signs of post-traumatic stress such as flashbacks, nightmares, etc. Guilt Most people who grieve experience some level of guilt.
Arguments are a part of family life, especially during adolescence.
Because of this fact, teenagers often experience extreme feelings of guilt or take on responsibility for the death in some way. Most teens simply need to tell you what they are feeling and, in time, the guilt, with good support, can diminish. It is not at all uncommon for a bereaved teenager to hear the voice of the deceased or feel as though they see that person passing by or in a crowd. These occurrences can be frightening unless there is someone around to let them know that this is a natural part of the grieving process. It is not uncommon for a teenager to have thoughts of suicide as a way of escaping pain or joining their loved one.