Can Telemedicine Treat Grief & Bereavement Support for Children?

Audience: pediatric

Grief and bereavement are natural responses to loss, especially when a child loses a loved one. Telemedicine can offer helpful support for children and families coping with these feelings. Through video or phone visits, healthcare providers can listen, provide guidance, and suggest coping strategies. Telemedicine often makes it easier to access care from home, which can be comforting during difficult times. However, some situations may require in-person care, especially if a child shows signs of severe distress or risk. This guide explains what telemedicine can and cannot do for grief support, how to prepare for a tele-visit, and what to expect afterward. Remember, telemedicine advice is educational and not a substitute for emergency or personalized care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child expresses thoughts of self-harm or suicide — seek emergency in-person care immediately.
• Child shows severe changes in behavior such as withdrawal, aggression, or inability to function in daily activities — contact a healthcare provider promptly.
• Signs of physical harm or neglect during grief period — ensure immediate safety and notify appropriate services.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing emotional support and counseling for grief and bereavement.
• Offering coping strategies and education to children and families.
• Assessing general mental health and recommending follow-up care or resources.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Managing severe mental health crises such as suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
• Conducting physical examinations or emergency interventions.
• Prescribing medications without in-person evaluation when necessary.

What Is Grief and Bereavement in Children?

Grief is the emotional pain felt after losing someone important, like a parent, sibling, or friend. Bereavement is the period of mourning and adjustment after a loss. Children may show grief differently than adults — through sadness, anger, confusion, or changes in behavior. Understanding these feelings helps families support children through their healing process.

How Telemedicine Can Help with Grief Support

Telemedicine allows children and families to connect with healthcare providers remotely using video or phone calls. Providers can offer counseling, teach coping skills, and recommend resources. This approach can be especially helpful when travel or in-person visits are difficult. Telemedicine can provide timely emotional support and help families feel less alone during tough times.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Grief Care

While telemedicine is useful, it may not be enough for all children. Some may need face-to-face therapy, medication evaluation, or emergency care if they have severe depression, thoughts of self-harm, or other urgent issues. Telemedicine cannot replace hands-on assessments or emergency interventions. Providers may refer families to local services if needed.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from a tele-visit:

What to Expect After the Telemedicine Visit

After the visit, providers may suggest follow-up appointments, coping strategies, or referrals to local counselors or support groups. Families might receive educational materials or resources to support the child’s healing. It’s important to monitor the child’s mood and behavior and seek help if symptoms worsen.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private space for the tele-visit.
• Test your device and internet connection beforehand.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns about the child’s grief.
• Have a caregiver present if the child is young or needs support.
• Gather any relevant medical or mental health history to share with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s recommendations for coping strategies or therapy.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as advised.
• Monitor the child’s emotional and behavioral changes closely.
• Seek immediate help if red-flag symptoms appear.
• Use recommended resources such as support groups or educational materials.

FAQs

Can telemedicine provide the same support as in-person grief counseling for children?

Telemedicine can offer valuable emotional support and counseling, especially when in-person visits are difficult. However, some children may benefit more from face-to-face therapy, depending on their needs and severity of symptoms.

What should I do if my child seems very upset during a telemedicine visit?

If your child becomes very upset, the provider may pause the session to offer support or suggest a follow-up visit. If distress is severe or includes thoughts of self-harm, seek immediate in-person care.

Is it safe to talk about grief over video calls?

Yes, telemedicine platforms are designed to be private and secure. Talking about grief over video calls can be a safe and effective way for children to express their feelings and receive support.

How can I help my child prepare for a telemedicine visit about grief?

Explain what will happen during the visit in simple terms, ensure a comfortable and private setting, and encourage your child to share their feelings openly during the session.

What if my child needs medication for grief-related symptoms?

Medication decisions usually require an in-person evaluation. Telemedicine providers may refer you to local healthcare professionals for medication assessment if needed.

Sources

1. Grief: Coping with the loss of your loved one — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Helping Children Cope with Grief and Loss — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Mental Health and Substance Use: Grief and Bereavement — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine education is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child experiences emergency symptoms or severe distress, seek immediate in-person medical attention.