How to Support Pre-teens Through Loss and Emotional Pain

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Jerry Woodbridge, author and advocate for children navigating grief. Drawing from both professional insight and personal experience, Dr. Woodbridge shares a powerful perspective on how pre-teens process loss—and why their grief often goes misunderstood. We explore the unique ways children respond to grief, including behaviors that may surprise caregivers, such as anxiety and panic attacks. Dr. Woodbridge speaks candidly about her own son's experience after the death of his father, offering a deeply personal look at how grief can manifest when children lack the language to express what they are feeling. Her book, Joy Overcomes Sorrow, was written to meet children where they are. Centered on the story of a 10-year-old girl experiencing profound loss, the book serves not only as a resource for grieving children but also as a tool to help children who have not experienced loss develop empathy and emotional awareness. Dr. Woodbridge also shares the challenges she faced while writing for this age group, and how her journey as both a mother and author shaped the message of her work. In addition, she introduces her newest book, which focuses on sibling loss—an often overlooked but deeply impactful experience for children. This conversation offers valuable insight for caregivers, chaplains, counselors, and anyone supporting children through grief. Resources & Links: p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Dr. Jerry Woodbridge's website: DrJerryLWoodbridge.com p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Books by Dr. Jerry Woodbridge (available on Amazon) p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice: Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook. For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.