Coping with the loss of a partner is heartbreaking. That type of pain is not something that disappears overnight, but the support of close friends can be cathartic and healing. If you have a friend who is going through this experience, you can provide an invaluable gift by being there through the funeral service and beyond. Below is more information that you should know about helping your friend cope.

How to Help a Friend Who Lost a Partner

1. Be Consistently Present

There are no rights or wrongs when grieving, but you can help a friend by providing love and a non-judgmental ear. While you may have been present at the funeral service, grief has no end date—and your friend may find it challenging to cope once everyone returns to their lives. Check-in, and do so often so that they know there is someone who cares. Call, visit, and bring food over. Don’t offer to take care of small tasks, like taking out the trash or picking up the mail; do them without asking, instead. These gestures are small but can help significantly.

2. Remember the Firsts

It’s the “firsts” that are often the most difficult when facing the loss of a significant other. Your friend’s first birthday, anniversary, and holiday season without their partner can feel incredibly lonely, and they may feel isolated during those moments. Remember these dates, and offer your time and words of comfort. Attempt to talk if your friend wants to, but remember that they may not wish to speak on especially sad days.

Respect their wishes, whether they want to take a walk and reminisce about their loved one or to be alone. Remembering and being there on these dates is a touching gesture that your friend will notice.

3. Discuss the Person

There’s a tendency to shy away from using a person’s name after their death, for fear of upsetting loved ones. However, the opposite is usually true. People want to talk about their partner, share stories, and swap fun memories. This is why funeral services and memorial services are cathartic. Don’t avoid talking about the person unless your friend requests that you don’t. Your friend’s partner will always be a part of their life, even if they are not physically present. Honor their relationship, and your friend will be grateful.

The caring and compassionate professionals at Schlientz & Moore Funeral Home in Dayton, OH, are committed to serving you during your time of grief. That is why we offer many options to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible, including planning funeral services, cremations, and burial services. Visit our funeral home online for more information, or call us at (937) 253-1441 to speak with a staff member.