Encourage expression of thoughts and feelings
“Do you feel like talking?”
“I don’t know what to say, but I care.”
“Please don’t worry if you cry in front of me.”
Help create rituals
Help recall good times
Help put regrets into perspective
Urge person to look to their faith community and/or a grief professional
Encourage person to consider a support group
Plan for difficult times/dates (anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, mealtimes)
Help clean out loved one’s things and use time to reminisce
Suggest writing a letter to the loved one, or keeping a journal
Don’t be afraid to have a good time or to laugh
Share favorite quotations, words of encouragement
Encourage person to take care of their health
Help shop, cook, write thank you notes
Be patient. Grief takes time. Avoid saying things like “you should be getting on with your life.”
Just sit
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