Right after someone dies, those who are grieving receive an outpouring of support. However, in the days following the funeral, that attention often begins to wane, sometimes leaving bereaved people feeling alone. If you have a friend who has recently lost a loved one, your continuing compassion and grief support can make a significant impact as they begin to heal.

5 Ways to Help a Grieving Friend

1. Help With Food

After the funeral, those who are grieving shouldn't have to worry about cooking. Drop off a meal to your friend or organize a meal train to support the family with food over the next few weeks. In the subsequent months, reach out to your friend on a regular basis, asking if they need you to pick up anything at the store or want to go out for a bite to eat.

2. Offer to Babysit

When someone with young children has passed away, one of the best things you can do for the surviving spouse is offering to babysit. It's very difficult to care for your children while grieving the love of your life. Even taking the kids out for ice cream for an hour or two will give your friend a much-needed break. Don't tell the children not to cry or discourage them from expressing their own grief.

3. Assist With Transportation

If the survivor is a senior, they may have relied on their spouse for transportation to the grocery store, doctor's appointments, and other errands. Offer to give them rides or to help them with jobs around the house. Help them research to find transportation assistance or a caregiver's help.

4. Lend an Ear

Sometimes the best grief support is just listening. Most bereaved people want to talk about their loved one. They don't want to think the deceased will be forgotten. Reminisce together. Encourage them to talk about the decedent. Don't change the topic or try to avoid talking about the person who has passed away.

5. Be Available

Mourning may continue for months or even years. Let your grieving friend know that you will be available for them whenever and for however long they need. Make yourself available by text message, phone calls, and in person as much as you can. If you feel your friend could use professional grief support or counseling, help them to receive those services.

For more than 100 years, Willow Funeral Home, LLC has provided burial services, funeral pre-planning, funeral services, grief support, and memorial services to the Willow Springs, MO, area and surrounding Howell County communities. Their compassionate team aims to lighten your burden as you grieve. Call (417) 469-3141 to schedule a consultation or visit their website to learn more about their complete line of services.