Dr. Phil

Sudden Tragedy, Lasting Grief

The recent shooting deaths at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut have left the families of the victims devastated and the nation in shock. How can the country move forward after such heartache, and how can families who are struggling with loss get past the pain? Dr. Phil helps his guests conquer their feelings of guilt and grief to help ensure they don’t journey down an endless road of despair. Eight years ago, Julie’s mother-in-law accidentally backed her SUV over Julie’s 4-year-old son and killed him. Julie’s older daughter, Madison, who was 14 at the time, witnessed the accident and says that ever since, she has been overcome with guilt for not saving her little brother. Two years ago, Madison left home and has had little contact with her mother. A recent phone call reunited them, and Madison says she’s ready to face her feelings. Can Dr. Phil help her work through her grief, guilt and loss? Then, Greg says one night in 2009, he came home to find his 17-month-old son dead. Greg’s wife at the time, Lori, was convicted of murder and sentenced to 25 years to life in state prison. “The facts have taken place, but I don’t understand the rationale or what happened behind it,” the grieving dad says. Can Dr. Phil help Greg make peace with what happened?