Hey guys! I've been thinking about how TCKs have lots more losses than the average child. TCKs are more likely to lose 30 friends in their childhood than a child living in his/her home country. If it's the passing of someone you are dealing with or a friend moving, its loss. Every TCK deals with this. Every TCK moves at some point. Every TCK has a friend move, never to be seen again. And every TCK needs to learn how to deal with loss in a healthy way, cause tons of TCKs don’t know how. Tons of TCKs block out relationships so they don’t have to say goodbye. This is the most unhealthy way to live your life. Here are eight healthy ways to deal with loss.
Fix broken relationships. if you have a grudge against someone they/you will leave with a forever burden.
Plan ahead. If you have a best friend leaving, think about people you would like to connect with after your friend is gone. Always be open to new friends.
Quality time. Spend time with your friends, whether they are leaving or you are. Plan a last sleepover or fun activity you both enjoy.
Cry. Allow yourself to be sad, it's not a sin. No one will judge you for being upset.
Take your time. Don’t rush your goodbye. You only get one chance to say goodbye, don’t waste it.
Talk about it. Talk about your loss with a trusted adult, get all your emotion out in the open. It feels good.
Find a representation. Make sure you have an object to represent a close friend. It will help you remember them.
Accept. Accept that you need to say “goodbye” and that if you don’t it will only add to your grief.
Hope this helps!!! Until next time…
-Heather