Programs Set To Help Teens Deal With Grief In Lacey

LACEY, NJ — During National Suicide Prevention Month, the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch has scheduled some programs on how to help teenagers deal with grief, for both adults and teens.

The first program is for teens only, titled “Compassionate Conversations: Helping Teens Cope with Loss,” set for 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 23.

Hosted by Bright Harbor Healthcare and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, the program is intended to help teenagers understand grief and loss, whether they are experiencing personal challenges or hoping to support friends in tough times.

“We’ll explore how grief impacts us, share practical strategies to cope and heal and learn valuable skills for navigating difficult emotions,” the library said in a news release. “Together, we’ll discover ways to strengthen resilience and support each other on the journey to healing.”

Following that program is an adults-only workshop at 6:30 p.m. also titled “Compassionate Conversations: Helping Teens Cope with Loss.”

This workshop will explore teen grief.

“Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to develop practical communication techniques to support and encourage teens through challenging situations,” the library said. “The program will offer insight for healthy coping mechanisms and ways to nurture resilience and foster healing in the grief process.”

Bright Harbor Healthcare provides services for physical and mental health and substance abuse at centers in Toms River, Bayville and Point Pleasant. The Freehold-based Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide offers behavioral health support services and is affiliated with the national Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Register for the teen program here and the adult program here.