It can be hard to know what to do to comfort someone dealing with a loss or know how to best approach talking about their bereavement. Everyone experiences grief differently, and there is no step-by-step guide to helping someone with their grief.
Things To Say To Someone Grieving A Loss
Share fond memories
If you are also suffering from the same loss, it could help you both to reflect on the experiences you shared with your loved one and reminisce about the good times.
Validate all their feelings
Express to them that their grief is a normal response in this situation.
It can be hard to remember to give yourself time off and make allowances for yourself when grieving. Therefore, having someone remind them that their feelings are normal and valid can help them take a step back and give themselves time and space to mourn.
Sympathise with how challenging this experience is
You can never know how someone else is feeling; everyone is experiencing grief in their way. So don’t start making their grief about you and endlessly share how awful it was when you were going through grief. However, it can be helpful to simply state that you recognise how difficult this time is for them, and you will do your best to understand what they are going through.
Actively listen
Sometimes it’s better not to say anything and if you don’t know what to say to comfort someone, ask!
You could make suggestions and see what they feel would be the most helpful support in their time of need. For example, you could suggest distracting them, talking about the person and sharing memories, or discussing how the grief affects them and the symptoms they are experiencing.
Being an active listener can be one of the most powerful ways to show support and love for someone who is grieving. Be their shoulder to cry on, and don’t offer advice if this isn’t what they need.
Remind them you are here for them if they need you
Before you wrap up a conversation about grief, it’s always a good idea to reiterate that you are here for them if they need you in the future. Although your close friends and family will know this deep down, confirming this to your friends and family who may not be feeling themselves is always encouraging.
What NOT To Say To Someone Dealing With a Loss
There are many comforting things you can say to a person who is grieving. However, there are also a few sentences to avoid conveying to someone. For example, saying ‘It was God’s will’ or ‘just give it time’ isn’t helpful during someone’s bereavement process. Visit our website to find more information on what not to say.
You are likely reading this article because you are a supportive friend or family member to those around you. If you are looking for more ways to show your love to those who are grieving, we offer memorial jewellery to help people cope with a loss.
