How Alan Rickman and C.S. Lewis Can Inspire Parentless Teens

"Feeling isolated after loss from parental death is common for teenagers, but that doesn't make their situation any easier. In fact, it can complicate the grief process even more if teens don't have anyone else close to them in their life who also lost a parent. The loss can suddenly make them feel different from their peers, almost like an outcast. This is where a helpful positive coping mechanism exercise can benefit them."

"A substantial number of notable figures, both living and dead, gave something extraordinary to the world after losing a parent young. From athletes and authors, to musicians, entrepreneurs, and Nobel Prize laureates, there are multiple examples of individuals who lost a parent during childhood, but still grew up to do something world-changing. Learning about these individuals can be uplifting and inspirational for grieving teens. Not only will they feel less alone and isolated, but they can also turn their pain into something motivational to try to help change the world like some of these other figures did."

"For example, Anne Sullivan was well known for teaching Helen Keller, who was a deaf and blind student. This was no easy task. Although others may not have had the patience to teach Helen, Anne did so with grace and kindness. She made such a significant difference in Helen's life that the world learned about the amazing things she did for her. Yet a lot of people don't know that Anne's personal life was far from easy. Her mother died when Anne was just eight years old. She also lost two siblings when they were just babies, and Anne and her two surviving siblings lived in poor conditions. Anne also actually contracted an eye disease called trachoma which damaged her eyesight. She went t"

Teenagers commonly feel isolated after losing a parent, which can complicate and prolong the grief process when no one close shares the experience. Positive coping exercises can help grieving teens manage feelings of difference and exclusion. Learning about notable individuals who lost a parent young — including athletes, authors, musicians, entrepreneurs, and Nobel laureates — can lessen isolation and provide empowering role models. Such stories can inspire teens to transform pain into motivation and purpose. Educators, family members, and counselors can use these examples as a practical technique to guide and support struggling teens through bereavement.

Read at Psychology Today