It can be very challenging for individuals close to someone who has passed away. Coping with the loss of a beloved community member can be especially difficult, especially when they have touched many people’s lives, from children to parents, as well as friends and family. Below are five ways to assist a friend who is mourning the loss of a loved one.
Reach out to your friend
It is important not to avoid someone who has lost a loved one, as it can be confusing and hurtful. The best thing to do is acknowledge the passing of their loved one soon after the death, letting them know that you are aware of their loss and that you care. Visiting them, phoning, sending a text, email, card, or letter are all acceptable.
Make concrete plans
Although your intentions are coming from the right place, if you say, “call me if you need anything, ” your grieving friend will unlikely know what they need or ask for help. Instead, take the initiative and make concrete plans like saying, “I’ll be around at 4 pm to take your dog for a walk, water the plants, or cook you dinner.” Reach out to your friend often and help with recurring tasks such as baking or meals, as grief can be exhausting and debilitating.
Be a good listener
Your friend may want to talk about their loved one, and one of the most helpful things you can do is simply listen and give them time. Phone calls may be longer, or the timing may be off, but it is important to stay focused on your friend even when you may be busy. They will notice and appreciate it.
Share your expertise
If you have special expertise or have already been through the loss of a spouse or relative, sharing your knowledge can be valuable to your friend during this time. Try and find some photos of your friend’s loved one, as they will need photos for the funeral service. If you can assist with paperwork, they must manage insurance, banking, obtaining a death certificate or understanding their will. This can remove a great deal of stress from the bereaved.
Be there after a few weeks or months
Your bereaved friend will still be grieving three months on, and getting back into ordinary life can be the hardest step. Rather than send flowers initially, save them until three months later when they can sometimes feel like everyone else has moved on. Make frequent plans with your friend, call once a week and keep the invitations coming. Offering support on special days like anniversaries, birthdays, and holidays will also let your friend know that are loved and cared for.
We hope this list will hopefully be helpful, everyone grieves differently, and grief is not one-size-fits-all. Think of this as a way to start.
We would love to know how you have helped others in their grief or how others may have helped you.
