HEALTH IS WEALTH MAGAZINE
Tips to Support Someone After the Loss of a Baby Guidance for Supporting Those Grieving Pregnancy or Infant Loss from a social worker
The loss of a pregnancy or an infant is a heart-wrenching experience that affects more families than many realize. According to the March of Dimes, about 10% to 20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that around 21,100 babies are stillborn, with nearly 20,000 dying before their first birthday in the United States annually. Lack of meaningful support from others can intensify the grief. Talia Grossman, a licensed master social worker and advanced clinician at NewYork-Presbyterian Alexandra Cohen Hospital for Women and Newborns, provides insights on supporting those grieving pregnancy or infant loss. Offer Practical Assistance In the immediate aftermath, those grieving often need help with daily tasks. Offer assistance with practical needs like picking up groceries, doing laundry, or coordinating funeral arrangements. Be sensitive to individual preferences; some may appreciate help with tasks, while others may find comfort in a close family member or friend’s involvement.
Acknowledge the loss with simple expressions of sympathy to make the grieving person
feel seen and understood.
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