If you have experienced a sudden infant death, you are not alone. While you may not know of others in your situation, there are many other parents who have been where you are now, understand your sorrow and are available to talk with you. Many people find that accepting the support provided by those familiar with the grieving process helps them during this most difficult time.
The Department’s SIDS/Infant Mortality Program sends a letter and packet of information on SIDS and infant death, grief and support resources to be sent to a family and/or child care provider. The packet may include:
- Condolence letter
- Bereavement Support Resource Directories
- You Are Not Alone…Surviving the Death of a Baby brochure
- Healing a Father’s Grief booklet, by William H. Schatz
- Sibling Grief booklet, by Marcia G. Scherago, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.
A public health nurse from the local health department also can provide support to families. The nurse is well trained to listen and share information. The nurse can respond to the needs of all family members, including siblings and other close relatives. The nurse can make arrangements for a home visit and provide families with grief counseling and make referrals when appropriate. Visits and support services will continue for as long as the family and the nurse feel are needed.
Support groups are available throughout the state to help parents, families and friends cope with the loss of a baby and the grieving process. Although there are not support groups in every county, this will help identify support groups most geographically accessible. For a listing of support groups in your region, contact the Illinois SIDS/Infant Mortality Program at 217-557-2931.
535 West Jefferson Street • Springfield, Illinois 62761
Phone 217-782-4977 • Fax 217-782-3987 • TTY 800-547-0466
Questions or Comments
Phone 217-782-4977 • Fax 217-782-3987 • TTY 800-547-0466
Questions or Comments