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Coming to terms with the loss of a loved one can be difficult, which is why it’s important for families to deal with grief together. At Abriola Parkview Funeral Home in Trumbull, CT, our staff has helped families cope with loss for years, and we’ve compiled a few grief counseling tips to help families in need.

3 Tips to Help Families Deal With the Loss of a Loved One

1. Listen Attentively 

It might be exhausting to listen to friends or other family members talk about a deceased loved one. However, doing so is a big part of the grieving process, so it’s important to provide them with an attentive ear. When they want to talk, let them know you’re there to listen to anything they have to say, whether it be their own personal feelings toward the death or anecdotes about the deceased. 

2. Be Present 

grief counselingWhen dealing with a death, it’s important people know they’re not alone. If you’re the friend of a family that’s recently lost someone, one of the best grief counseling steps is to let them know you’re there when they need you. Doing so can be as simple as offering to pick the kids up from school occasionally, or helping them cook dinner one evening. Letting them know you’re around to help makes it easier for them to cope on a daily basis.

3. Legitimize Their Feelings

When someone is experiencing a loss, one of the last things they want to hear is, “I know exactly how you feel.” How could you know exactly how someone else feels? When helping a friend or family deal with the loss of a loved one, it’s important to legitimize their feelings of grief by letting them know it’s OK to be upset. They may at times feel sad or depressed, and all of those are legitimate feeling to have. If they’re going through a rough time, don’t be surprised if they also lash out at you occasionally — even strong feelings of anger and annoyance are part of the grieving process.

If you’re a close friend of the family or have lost a family member of your own, keeping the above tips in mind will help ensure the loss is dealt with in the most positive manner possible. For more helpful grief counseling advice, contact Abriola Parkview Funeral Home today at (203) 373-1013. You can also visit us online to learn more about our funeral services.

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