Follow Up Prepare a memorial service or candle vigil the youth can participate in. Hold a workshop or discussion group for youth dealing with loss. For youth at risk, follow up with 'Thinking of you' cards, emails or through invitational phone calls for activities. Have other parish youth keep in touch with them. Consult with parents about noticeable changes in behaviors that concern you.
Most schools offer counseling if a young person seeks it out.
Encourage young people to talk, talk, talk. Tools and Teamwork Have literature available, including pamphlets on grief and depression. Business cards of pastoral counselors familiar with youth issues are helpful. Have boxes of tissues around. Encourage young people to seek professional care if their emotions are too heavy to carry alone.