Memories are Forever - a kit for grieving 13-24 year olds
When a loved one dies, it can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you. That’s why Kenzie’s Gift created the“Memories Are Forever” Grief Kit for ages 13–24—to guide teenagers and young adults through one of life’s toughest challenges. This resource meets you where you are, blending honest conversations about grief with practical tools that nurture both your emotional and physical wellbeing.
Grief during your teenage or early adult years can be especially confusing. The kit uses language, examples, and strategies that resonate with mātātahi (young people), acknowledging the unique pressures of school, friends, and early independence.
Inspired by te whare tapa whā—the Māori model of holistic health—the kit addresses taha tinana (physical), taha hinengaro (emotional), taha wairua (spiritual), and taha whānau (family). It recognises that your mental wellbeing is deeply connected to every aspect of your life—body, soul, community, and environment.
The kit doesn’t just discuss the grief process; it provides creative outlets for expression. From journaling prompts to memory boxes, these hands-on activities help release powerful emotions, preserve cherished memories, and empower you to shape your healing journey.
No sugar-coating or tired clichés here. The kit speaks honestly about guilt, anger, loneliness, and fear—validating your intense emotions and offering safe ways to cope. You’ll find discussions on healthy vs. unhealthy coping mechanisms, plus suggestions for reaching out when the pain feels overwhelming.
Explore the complexities of grief—how it can show up in your body and mind, and why everyone grieves differently. You’ll learn why there’s no “right” timetable for sorrow, and how each person’s grief is influenced by their cultural background, relationships, and life experiences.
Discover practical strategies for better self-care, from small meal tips to ways of managing disrupted sleep. Ideas like journaling, music, and connecting with nature encourage resilience, while emphasising that it’s okay to move at your own pace.
When grief hits, relationships can shift. The kit explores ways to communicate with whānau who may also be grieving, and how to lean on friends (or find new support networks) if existing ones feel uncertain or distant.
The “Memories Are Forever” section guides you through rituals that honour your loved one—like making memory boxes, writing letters, or revisiting shared playlists or movies. These practices can evolve over time, turning moments of sadness into treasured reflection.
Fear, numbness, or regret can lead to harmful behaviours, but this kit offers alternatives. You’ll find a curated list of helplines, counsellors, online support groups, and community services so you can connect with the right people when you’re ready.
These years shape how you’ll cope with challenges down the road. Learning healthy grieving now boosts your ability to manage future stressors.
By engaging with diary prompts and reflections, you’ll gain deeper insight into your identity—who you are beyond this loss and who you aspire to be.
Family and friends often struggle to talk about death. This kit provides conversation starters, breaking down communication barriers and forging stronger bonds.
If you’re ready for real, heartfelt guidance through your grief,download or order the “Memories Are Forever” Grief Kit for Ages 13–24”from Kenzie’s Gift.
Kenzie’s Gift is here to ensure you’re not alone. Begin with “Memories Are Forever” and let it guide you, even amid grief, there’s room to grow, connect, and honour the past. If you’d like further support from one of our therapy team, contact us on therapy@kenziesgift.com