Everyone will inevitably face sorrow in their life. While these moments are something we can all relate to, it doesn’t make them any easier to deal with. It can also be hard to know how to help someone else in your family, church, or community when they’re going through these troubling times. Here are three tips for helping someone who is in mourning.

3 Steps to Help a Grieving Individual

1. Admit You Don’t Know What to Say

This one may seem backward because you want to find the perfect words to soothe the person. However, bringing up your own past instances of grief and claiming you can relate to theirs because of it may devalue their experience. There’s nothing better to say than “I can’t imagine what you’re feeling, but I’m here if you need anything.”

2. Listen More Than You Talk

While some people shut themselves off when grieving, you can help them more by asking them questions than sharing your own thoughts. You want to be there to hear what they have to say rather than trying to tell them what to feel or how much you care.

Ask them if there’s anything they can do or what could bring them comfort during their time of hardship. While some people may avoid talking about the loss, some people may appreciate questions about their lost loved ones. 

3. Remember Everyone Grieves in Their Own Way

Some people do their mourning in the church and ask for prayer, while others lock themselves away for most of the day. Some may take time off from work if they can, while others may continue their daily routine.

Never question them, unless they’re doing something like engaging in self-harming behaviors, including excessive drinking or substance use. When your grieving loved one wants company, sit with them for the afternoon. When they want to be left alone, wait until they call. Respect the process they have for dealing with their own emotions.

If you seek an environment that empowers individuals through bad times and good times alike, visit Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church in Dickinson, TX. This church was established in 1998 and strives to create a family environment members can turn to for support and prayers. Learn more about their history online. To get in touch, call (409) 218-9339.