Counselor can help grieving friend deal with mortality issues

have extended family but no immediate family left). I feel so drained and useless. Any help would be appreciated.

Dear Missing: The death of someone close can affect people in different ways. For some, the reminder that life isn’t infinite can trigger them to re-evaluate their relationships or how they have been living their lives.

Because you seem to be unable to move past your feelings of abandonment, which many people experience after the loss of their parents, consider joining a grief support group. However, if that isn’t enough, a licensed therapist may help you to regain your balance.

Dear Abby: My daughter’s significant other fathered her two children and seemed dedicated to his family. He worked hard to support and care for them. Then, almost overnight, it all changed.

My daughter is now a single (unemployed) mom with two little ones under 4. She needs help, and I need advice about how to best help her. It appears they’ll need to move in with us (an arrangement that will be stressful for all). Help, please! —

Dear Ready: The first thing you adults should do is remind yourselves that this won’t be forever — only until your daughter is able to find a job, get back on her feet and the children are in day care.

Next, help your daughter ensure that the children’s father continues to provide financially for them. If he is resistant, an attorney may be able to help, and so can government agencies in every state.

And last, give the new additions to your household all the love and understanding you can — which I am sure you are already doing.