Grief is a natural response to loss, and it can be a challenging and difficult experience to navigate for both the bereaved and those around them. Many people want to be a good friend or listening ear. Read our advice on how to support the bereaved.
How can I provide support after someone has died?
There are many ways to provide support after someone has died, and the most appropriate approach will depend on your relationship with the bereaved and their needs. Here are some general suggestions:
Offer practical assistance. This could include helping with errands, preparing meals, or providing transportation.
Be a good listener. The bereaved person may want to talk about their feelings and memories of the person who has died. Let them know that you are there to listen and that it’s okay to cry.
Respect their wishes. It’s important to respect the bereaved person’s wishes and needs, even if they differ from your own. If they don’t want to talk about their feelings or need some time alone, respect their wishes.
Offer emotional support. It can be helpful to simply be there for the bereaved person and provide emotional support. This might involve giving them a hug, holding their hand, or just being present with them in silence.
Help with funeral arrangements. If the bereaved person is struggling to make funeral arrangements, you can offer to help with tasks such as contacting the funeral home, writing the obituary, or making travel arrangements for out-of-town guests.
Keep in touch. It’s important to continue to provide support in the weeks and months following the person’s death. This might involve checking in with the bereaved person, sending a card or a thoughtful gift, or just being there for them when they need someone to talk to.
Different experiences around grief
Grief is a natural response to loss, and it can be a challenging and difficult experience to navigate. There is no one “best” way to deal with grief, as everyone experiences it differently and what works for one person may not work for another. However, there are a few things you can try that may help you cope with your grief.
Allow yourself to feel your emotions. It’s important to allow yourself to feel and express your emotions, even if they are painful. Bottling up your emotions can make it harder to cope with your grief.
Take care of yourself. Take care of your physical and emotional needs by getting enough rest, eating well, and engaging in activities that bring you comfort and enjoyment.
Reach out for support. It can be helpful to talk about your feelings with friends, family, or a therapist. They can provide a listening ear, offer comfort, and give you a sense of connection during a difficult time.
Find ways to remember and honour the person you’ve lost. This could be through creating a memorial, participating in a special tradition, or finding other ways to keep their memory alive.
Find healthy ways to cope with your grief. This could be through writing, drawing, exercising, or finding other creative outlets to express your feelings.
In conclusion, remember that everyone grieves differently, and it’s okay to take the time you need to process your feelings and heal. It can also be helpful to seek professional support if you are struggling to cope with your grief.
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About the author
Written by Stephen Lee
Owner, CeremonyCast – Professional Funeral Live Streaming
Covering Sydney, Southern Highlands, Wollongong, Central Coast, Newcastle & The Hunter