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Grief comes in many forms, and helping a friend or loved one through the process can be a challenge. Many people experience the emotion following a funeral, and the staff at Fred D. Knapp & Son Funeral Home believe that when it’s crucial to make yourself available. Interpreting what someone needs rarely gets results, so open yourself up and follow the tips below to help a grieving friend or loved one.

3 Tips to Comfort Someone in Grief

1. Avoid Stating the Obvious

Although speaking positively about the deceased may seem helpful, it doesn’t always provide comfort. There are many scripts, such as “she lived a long, healthy life,” or “he was one of  the best of us” that seem okay to say, but only state the obvious. It’s important to talk on a personal level, and more importantly, speak about the person in grief rather than the deceased.

2. Make Yourself Available

funeralWhether in the moment or throughout the day, availability is key. Emotions can flare up without warning, and being able to stop and comfort a friend on a moment’s notice is the best way to build support. Offer several ways to communicate—phone calls, texting, and video calls are excellent ways to talk when you can’t be there in person. Providing this support, especially in the days following a funeral, will make all the difference for your friend.

3. Listen

Speaking is crucial for emotional relief, and listening is the best way to help a grieving loved one. It may take time for them to find the words, but they’ll eventually share the thoughts that are bothering them. This allows them to start a dialogue on their terms and with their intention. When responding, talk with them rather than to them, and remember that body language can sometimes be more powerful than words.

Ultimately, grief resolves with time. The compassionate funeral staff at Fred D. Knapp & Son Funeral Home can provide any assistance needed during funeral services to make guests and loved ones more comfortable. They’ve provided unrivaled service to residents of Greenwich, CT, since 1864, and they can accommodate all of your funeral needs. Call (203) 869-0315 today to speak with their staff, and visit their website to learn more about their funeral and cremation services.

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