Losing a baby is one of the hardest things that a parent could ever face. Men and women spend nine months planning for the arrival of their new baby, but sometimes infants die shortly after birth or a few months later. When it happens, it can lead to isolation and depression. Staying involved with others and communicating can help parents deal with the death of a baby.
Step 1
Honor the baby with a funeral or remembrance ceremony. Buy a small casket or urn or perform a remembrance ceremony. Have each family member say something special about the baby. This not only honors the infant’s short life but can help to give you a sense of closure.
Step 2
Speak with a counselor, psychologist or trusted friend about your feelings. According to the national grief organization Share, losing a baby can cause intense feelings of sadness for two years or more. Feelings of depression are normal after losing a baby, but getting some of your emotions out by speaking with someone can help. Depending on your insurance, the cost of seeing a psychologist or counselor may be covered.
Step 3
Join a support group such as GriefShare. Grief Share is an international organization that provides group counseling to those who have lost a loved one. It has special groups for parents and other family members who have dealt with an infant loss. According to the official GriefShare website, GriefShare groups meet every week for 13-week cycles that involve video seminars with grief experts, group sharing and journaling your thoughts in a special workbook.
Step 4
Remember your baby on special days such as birthdays, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day every year. The organization Share states that acknowledging feelings of sadness on special days can help by preventing you from suppressing your feelings. Remembrance items such as a baby blanket, pacifier or stuffed animal are important to keep as time passes. These items will help you to stay feeling connected to the baby even as your sadness about the death decreases over time.
Things You'll Need
- Journal
- Remembrance items such as a baby blanket
