Losing a child is a tragedy no parent should have to experience, which no one who hasn’t gone through it can truly understand. While you want to support friends or family members who have lost a child in any way you can, the enormity of their grief can leave you feeling helpless and unsure of what to do. Every situation is different and everyone handles grief differently, but helping plan the funeral services and just being there can make this difficult process somewhat easier on those you love.

How to Help Friends or Family Members After They’ve Lost a Child

1. Be There Immediately

Close friends and relatives of grieving parents usually assume that their grieving loved one will need to see their immediate family for a while. Unfortunately, their parents and siblings are also grieving the loss, so this is when they’ll likely need your support and assurance the most. Just showing up to help coordinate the funeral services, make phone calls, and pick people up from the airport can alleviate a little stress for them.

2. Give Them Space

Some people won’t want to talk about their feelings at first, while others need to describe their experience and what they’re going through. Without pushing them into a conversation they may not be ready to have, let the person you care about know that they can speak freely around you, and let them express themselves when they do start to talk.

3. Keep Checking in 

Remember that, for your friend or family member, life will never be the same, even after the planning, organizing, and hosting of the funeral service has ended. Watching the rest of the world move on after a tragic loss can be painful for someone who’s grieving, so keep checking in every week. Just offering a sympathetic ear can help a grieving parent pick up the pieces and start to rebuild their life.

For five generations, Middendorf Funeral Home has helped grieving families throughout Northern Kentucky plan meaningful funeral services for their loved ones. Their caring staff knows how difficult losing a family member can be and will provide the personal attention you deserve through every step of the process. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (859) 341-7800 to speak with a compassionate funeral director today.