In Utah, about 1 in 15 children face the heartbreaking loss of a parent or sibling by age 18. This trauma is significant, leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts if not properly addressed.
Grief is a natural response to loss, but children often need support to cope effectively. That’s where a new initiative comes in. The Trauma and Grief Center (TAG Center) in Dallas aims to provide better care for children facing grief and trauma across U.S. hospitals.
Intermountain Children’s Health and Primary Children’s Hospital in Utah are the first to join this network in the Western U.S. Their involvement shows a commitment to helping families heal after loss. “Being part of the TAG Network highlights our dedication to supporting children through their toughest times,” says Dr. Angelo Giardino from Intermountain.
The TAG Center offers ongoing training and support for hospitals, ensuring they have the best practices for treatment. Thanks to funding from the New York Life Foundation, this initiative is set up for success. “We want to ensure families don’t navigate grief alone,” says Maria Collins from the Foundation.
Historically, many health systems overlook the specific needs of grieving children. A study from the National Institute of Mental Health found that 1 in 10 children show signs of serious emotional distress following a loss. The TAG Network seeks to change that by raising awareness and implementing specialized interventions like Multidimensional Grief Therapy (MGT), designed specifically for children.
Intermountain Children’s Health already has a history of trauma-informed care. Their Safe and Healthy Families program has provided resources and support for youth dealing with trauma and loss for years. They have trained over 1,000 therapists in trauma-focused treatments, creating a robust support network for affected children.
The impact of loss can be profound. Children may struggle in school or have trouble forming relationships. This new commitment to trauma-informed care helps fill these gaps. It ensures that children not only receive proper medical treatment but also the emotional support they desperately need.
Programs within Intermountain include grief support groups and camps for kids dealing with loss. These initiatives aim to build resilience and provide safe spaces for children to express their feelings.
In summary, the care and support available for grieving children in Utah is transforming, thanks to the TAG Network. This partnership aims to ensure that no child or family has to face grief alone, changing lives for the better.
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,Intermountain Health
