Children and teens typically follow suit with the reaction of the adults in their lives. If the adults openly grieve and show sorrow, the children may feel more comfortable doing this, too. However, if the adults try to swallow their feelings or stay strong, the youth may think grieving is inappropriate or a sign of weakness. [2] X Research source
Shock. At first, it may be difficult to come to terms with the fact that your cousin is gone. You may feel completely numb and no pain at all; you may also argue with others and deny the truth. You may even be filled with anticipation and hope, waiting for your cousin to appear and clear up this misunderstanding. Anger. You may feel upset and resentful after your cousin’s death. You may have angry and bitter feelings toward yourself, medical professionals, God, and or even towards your cousin for leaving you. Guilt. You may feel guilty that you couldn’t prevent what happened or that you survived. Sadness. This is one of the most common reactions to death. Sadness may include feeling like there is a hole in your life, loneliness, or hopelessness. You may cry for hours on end.
Journaling may also help you to release the pent-up emotion or confusing feelings you are experiencing after your cousin’s death. You might write about the good times and happy memories the two of you shared. [6] X Research source
If your family does not follow a religion or have memorial services, you can find other meaningful ways to commemorate your cousin.
You might even start a tradition of celebrating this person’s birthday each year or releasing balloons on this day to keep his/her memory alive.
Suggestions for living your life to the fullest might be to take advantage of the time you have on earth to set new goals. Create a “bucket list” of things you’d like to do before your own death, and start ticking items off. [8] X Research source
A counselor or therapist can help you find positive ways of channeling your grief and coping with loss.
