Dealing with grief

Losing a baby to SIDS is a tremendously painful experience. It can take months or years before you begin to feel as if your life is getting back to normal. Everyone in your household will have his or her own unique way of grieving for the lost baby. These different ways of coping with death can strain a marriage and a family. Some aspects of your family's grief may relate specifically to a SIDS death. For example, along with grief, family members may be struggling with feelings of guilt. Support from family, friends, and possibly health professionals during this process is very important for everyone.

Trusted health professionals can help you after your baby's death. Be aware that your baby's death also can affect your health professional. He or she may recommend other trained professionals to give you the needed support. If you feel the response from your health professional is inadequate, seek help somewhere else. For instance:

• Join a grief support group. Ask your health professional if one specifically for parents who have lost babies to SIDS is available in your area.
• Visit a mental health professional (psychiatrist, psychologist, licensed professional counselor). Many families benefit from group counseling to help them deal with the tensions that arise after the loss of a baby.
• Talk with a close family member, friend, or clergy member.

For more information about and help with grief in general, see the topic Grief and Grieving.