Ways to Support Someone Who is Grieving

Supporting someone who is grieving a loss may be challenging, especially if you don’t know what to say and where to begin. Sometimes, simply being present can mean a lot. As a hospice provider in Medina, Ohio, we have provided bereavement support to many individuals and understand that grief can look very different from one person to the next. Showing your support to someone experiencing a loss can be hard to navigate. If you are struggling with how to show support to someone who is grieving, check out our four top tips below.

• Be present.
  Simply being available to your friend or loved one is helpful and shows support. In calling, texting, or visiting, you are saying “I’m here for you.” Let them know that you are here to support and listen. This can be an immense source of encouragement.
• Listen actively
  Give your friend or loved one your full attention and acknowledge their thoughts and feelings. Avoid the need to offer advice or say anything in agreement or rebuttal. Oftentimes, someone who is grieving just needs to be heard in order process feelings and not have anything explained, fixed, or figured out. If you want to verbally show your support when listening, simply say, “I hear you,” or “I understand.”
• Lend practical assistance.
  Offer to help with everyday tasks. This can be particularly helpful in the days and weeks following a loss when daily activities may seem overwhelming to your friend or loved one who is grieving. This might include picking up groceries, preparing meals, or looking after children or pets.
• Understand that the process of grieving is unique.
  It’s essential to remember that there is no right or wrong way to grieve because it really is different for everyone. It may take a while for your friend or loved one to grieve, or it may seem brief. Be respectful of the however long it takes and avoid making assumptions about how someone should or shouldn’t cope with loss.

Grief is a personal and individual process. Just as there is no “right” way to grieve, there is no “right” way to provide support. Most importantly, just be present, be a genuine listener, and offer support.

Remembrance Hospice is a provider of hospice care in Medina, Ohio and offers bereavement support to patients and families. Our passion is caring for those who face life-limiting circumstances and their families in our community. Give us a call at 330-952-1930 to learn more about our services.