“What We’re Reading Now” is a new series where we will share blog posts and articles we find helpful for family caregivers, or anyone grieving the death of a loved one.

With the recent news of Whitney Houston‘s death, many have expressed shock over the untimely passing of this music icon. In addition, concern surrounding how Houston’s family – especially her only daughter – are reacting to this tragedy is growing. For those grieving the loss of a loved one, counselors remind us that grief is a natural reaction and expression of a loss. For children who are grieving, parents, grandparents or guardians often find themselves wondering if they are doing or saying things that are helpful to their children. Local marriage and family therapist and grief expert, Noreen Carrington, LMFT, FT, recently wrote an article on children and grief to assist anyone in a grieving child’s life: Honoring Children’s Grief.

In an article by the San Diego Reader about grief and loss counseling, San Diego therapist Liane Fry, LFMT, talks about how soon-to-be or recently bereaved individuals are susceptible to an existential crisis. “In terms of beliefs, how the world works, it can be ‘Who am I now that I’m not a parent or a spouse?’ — depending on who has died. Oftentimes, our work with the bereaved is not only about processing their loss but also about how they are going to adapt to living without the deceased.” Fry highlights the use of sand-tray therapy – one of a variety of therapeutic techniques used in her work with grieving individuals, which is the theme of the following article: Never Play in the Sand Alone.

In Psychology Today, Melanie A. Greenberg, Ph.D. (in The Mindful Self-Express) discusses quotes on grief to comfort and inspire those who are grieving. “By allowing the tears, we may find peace and meaning.” Dr. Greenberg notes that the death  of a loved one, especially a beloved parent, spouse, or child, is one of the most profound losses humans can experience. Research shows that there is no set pattern of mourning. While some people never get over a loss, others do not mourn at all. Read more in: The Mindful Self-Express.

Do any of these articles resonate with a similar situation you are experiencing? Also, what are you reading now…anything we should include in our series? Feel free to leave your suggestions for this series in the comments below or send us a Tweet.