When a Child or Baby Dies

The loss of a child, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, or during infancy, is an unimaginable sorrow. It is a grief that cuts deeply and affects parents, families, and caregivers in ways that are difficult to express or understand.

Understanding Grief After Losing a Child

Grief is a natural response to loss, and in the case of losing a child, it is profound. There is no “right” way to grieve, and your journey may look very different from others. It’s essential to give yourself permission to grieve in your own way and on your own timeline.

After losing a child, it’s normal to feel a mix of complex emotions as you navigate through life and process your feelings and thoughts:

• Sadness: Overwhelming sorrow or tears at the thought of your child.
• Guilt: Questioning what you could have done differently or wondering if you missed signs.
• Anger: Anger at the situation, at others, or even at yourself.
• Fear: Fear about the future and your ability to move forward.
• Numbness: Feeling disconnected or distant from the world around you. It’s important to know that any or all of these feelings are normal, and none of them indicate that something is wrong with you.

Steps to Take Following the Loss of a Child

The moments and days following the loss of a child are a blur. There are many things to consider, some of which may feel overwhelming. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do everything at once, and it’s okay to lean on others for help.

1. Notify the relevant authorities, firstly a hospital or medical professional to confirm the death.
2. Notify close family and friends for emotional support and help with arrangements.
3. Speak to a funeral director for funeral arrangements. This is a difficult and emotional task, so we are on hand to provide guidance and support during this process to put you at ease.
4. Gather medical records including information such as autopsy reports or birth and death certificates for medical or legal purposes.