It’s challenging to know what to say or do to comfort a grieving loved one. However, by offering emotional and practical support, you can make their grief less lonely and more manageable. The following advice will help you be the companion your loved one needs.

How to Help a Loved One Grieve

1. Listen & Be Present

Focus more on listening to your loved one than trying to relate to their situation or put a positive spin on it. More likely than not, your loved one simply wants someone to listen to them without discomfort or the need to reply. Don’t offer platitudes or prepared lines like “They’re in a better place,” or “I know how you feel”; instead, allow them to express their pain honestly. Even if neither of you speaks, your physical presence will be a comfort.

2. Avoid Social Media Posts

Many people use social media to express their condolences and upload tributes to the deceased, including photographs. Although your intentions are positive, these can be unwanted reminders of a new reality.

Try sharing your condolences and memories in person at the funeral or memorial, instead. That way, your grieving loved one won’t be barraged by photographs that may cause them pain, especially if they aren’t prepared to see them. In addition, sharing memories at the appropriate time gives your loved one a natural opportunity to open up. If you plan to share a photo, ask or warn them first. Grief is not a time for surprises.

3. Offer Practical Support

It’s nice to be there to lend a listening ear and a warm embrace, but you can also offer meals, babysitting, cleaning, or a chance for distraction. A grieving loved one might have a hard time with daily tasks and, in some cases, the deceased might’ve taken on household responsibilities that are now neglected. Don’t make an open-ended offer to help that leaves your friend with the responsibility of delegating, however. Come up with a specific task and get a yes or no answer on whether they want you to do it.

With E.C. Nurre Funeral Homes, Inc., in Amelia, OH, you’ll get the compassionate care you need during the grieving process. To honor the life of your loved one, they offer personalized funeral and memorial services. They will help you every step of the way—from floral arrangements to caskets—to create a service that reflects the deceased’s personality and beliefs. For respectful funeral and memorial services, call (513) 753-6130. For advice on how to begin this process, visit their website.