This may mean an additional loss of friends that can limit the support networks for the young person, as well as add to their grief and loss experience. Many of the callers aged between five and fourteen call to talk through an experience or are simply seeking information. Counsellors have the option of referring callers to another service if they feel the support would be beneficial. The most common referrals were to the National Association for Loss and Grief, bereavement counselling services, Lifeline, and community health centres. This rate is considerably below the referral rate across all calls as few services are available that deal with these issues for kids, particularly in regional areas.
Callers can also contract with a counsellor to call back and discuss their problems further.
In this situation, KHL can provide a sense of connectedness. KHL can play a vital role in the support and exploration of the grieving process. By providing a safe and confidential environment, counsellors assist children and young people to clearly identify and accept the feelings they are experiencing as a result of a loss. This information may be re-used, copied or distributed as long as it is sourced to Kids Help Line and is not used out of context. Based on 1997 to 1999 data.