Observed annually in November, Worldwide Bereaved Siblings Month is dedicated to those who have lost a sister or brother. One of the greatest pains a person can experience is the loss of a sibling, and this month aims to acknowledge that heartache.

The grief of siblings often gets overlooked, as it’s common for their suffering to be overshadowed by the pain of other family members, such as parents and children. This month is designed to begin healing the wounds left by the loss of a sibling and to encourage people to reach out to those they know who have lost a sibling.

The History of Worldwide Bereaved Siblings Month

Although we’re unsure when Worldwide Bereaved Siblings Month was created, we believe that it has only been around for a few years. It was likely established either by someone who lost a sibling themselves or by one of the grief associations based in the U.S. Nowadays, organizations such as the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC) provide people with ways to work through their grief.

Facts About the Loss of a Sibling

Nearly everyone can imagine how losing a sibling can be a heartbreaking experience, but few realize that it can also be a life-altering event. To highlight this point and help those who have never lost a sibling understand the loss better, we have listed some facts below.

• For years, sibling grief has been overlooked by bereavement literature.
• Common emotions experienced by siblings after a brother or sister dies include abandonment, guilt, anxiety, and a loss of innocence.
• Survivor guilt is common among those who have lost a brother or sister.
• Studies have shown that sibling loss is associated with an increased risk of death from causes other than diseases, such as accidents, suicides, and homicides.
• Children who have lost a sibling are more likely to develop psychiatric problems.
• Adults who have lost siblings also feel the loss deeply.

Observing Worldwide Bereaved Siblings Month

Offering sympathy and support to those who have lost a sibling is one way to observe this month. Those who have lost a sibling can use this time to meet with other individuals or mental health care professionals to work through their grief. People can also spread awareness about this month using the hashtag #BereavedSiblingsMonth on social media.