Psychologist shares grief tips for parents in wake of deadly Chatham crash

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — The day after a crash at the YNOT After School Camp Monday killed four and injured several others, WAND News spoke to a psychologist to learn how parents can support children through the grieving process.

Dr. Melissa Fisher Paoni, Ph.D., is a partner and co-owner of the Springfield Psychological Center. She said that in the immediate stages of grief after a traumatic event, parents should let their kids know that it's normal to have a variety of feelings.

"Kids are shocked and in disbelief, maybe they don't really understand why it happened," said Paoni. "And so we kind of want to normalize that that's what a lot of people are going through. At this early stage, we just want to be there for our kids."

By providing space to listen, parents can help clear up misconceptions about the traumatic event and any fears or concerns their kids have.

Paoni also stressed that kids who were close to victims of a traumatic event may experience more disruptions.

"They might have more intrusive thoughts. They might have more behavioral issues," Paoni explained. "They could be more irritable or have issues with sleep."

Kids who continue experiencing these disruptions may need further support and therapeutic intervention.

Various providers, faith leaders, and counselors have come together to support the entire Chatham community.

Grief counseling and trauma-informed support will be available at a series of evening sessions at Chatham Presbyterian Church, 1835 E Walnut St., from 5 to 7 p.m. on April 29, April 30 and May 1. Attendees may enter through the Chatham Community Food Pantry or Church Fellowship Hall entrances.

Area organizations offering support include HSHS St. John’s Hospital, SIU Medicine, Memorial Health, Chatham Presbyterian Church and others who are committed to walking alongside families, friends and community members during this time.

Paoni added that being present and checking in regularly can help parents keep an open line of communication with their kids.