Grief and Sleep Patterns in Adolescents
Start Date
April 2026
Location
3rd floor - Library
Abstract
Individuals who have experienced the death of someone significant to them often report disruptions in sleep, yet little is known about how grief-related experiences shape sleep patterns in children and adolescents. This study examines the relationship between grief and sleep among students enrolled in Companions on a Journey’s (COJ) K–12 grief support groups. A brief paper survey will be administered during regular group meetings across three COJ school-based sites, with an anticipated sample of approximately 30–35 participants. The survey includes items adapted from the Insomnia Severity Index and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to ensure age-appropriate, grief-sensitive assessment of sleep. The study aims to identify common sleep challenges among grieving youth and explore how grief-related experiences may influence sleep quality and daily functioning. Findings from this project will support COJ staff and school social workers in better understanding the intersection of grief and sleep, informing program development and enhancing support strategies for students navigating both grief and sleep-related difficulties.
Grief and Sleep Patterns in Adolescents
3rd floor - Library
Individuals who have experienced the death of someone significant to them often report disruptions in sleep, yet little is known about how grief-related experiences shape sleep patterns in children and adolescents. This study examines the relationship between grief and sleep among students enrolled in Companions on a Journey’s (COJ) K–12 grief support groups. A brief paper survey will be administered during regular group meetings across three COJ school-based sites, with an anticipated sample of approximately 30–35 participants. The survey includes items adapted from the Insomnia Severity Index and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to ensure age-appropriate, grief-sensitive assessment of sleep. The study aims to identify common sleep challenges among grieving youth and explore how grief-related experiences may influence sleep quality and daily functioning. Findings from this project will support COJ staff and school social workers in better understanding the intersection of grief and sleep, informing program development and enhancing support strategies for students navigating both grief and sleep-related difficulties.
