Losing a friend or loved one is a life-altering event that can have a lasting impact on a person. You may discover that a grieving friend is having trouble returning to their everyday life, and it’s important to provide support. There are many ways you can help following the funeral service, and you can share the ones below with friends and family to get started.

How to Help a Grieving Friend

1. Handle Errands & Everyday Needs

Everyday tasks like buying groceries, picking up the kids from school, cleaning the house, and cooking can be overwhelming following a funeral service. Reduce the burden by taking on responsibilities while your friend is grieving. Offer to bring over dinner, drop off some movies, run to the post office if needed, or take their kids to recreational sports. You’re reducing stress and giving your friend the time they need to grieve alone.

2. Be Present

Whether you’re right next door or on the other side of the country, make yourself available to your friend. Be ready to stop by their house if they need you, to pick up the phone, answer a text, or log on to a video call. You’re playing an important role as an emotional outlet and being available to listen to their troubles can go a long way toward recovery.

3. Maintain Normalcy

Returning to a routine can help your friend recover emotionally. Invite them to a weekly game night with friends, or stick to regular get-togethers for coffee. Recommend that they continue to take part in any of their former hobbies, such as sports, writing, or art. You can ask other friends to contribute as well by making plans together, but remember to never force the person or guilt them into coming, as it may only create more stress.

4. Recommend Resources

Professional services may be the best option for your friend, especially if they’re showing signs of self-neglect, abusing substances, or speaking about harming themselves. Look into local support groups and grief counseling in your area. The funeral home may have many resources you can use. A third-party professional may be easier for them to talk to and can provide valuable mental health advice.

Fossum Funeral Home understands the difficulty of handling after-life services and aims to make funeral services and planning stress-free for their La Crosse, WI, clients. They’ve served the area since 1926, providing cremation services, burial services, and funeral pre-planning. Visit their website to learn more about the funeral home and call (608) 783-9777 to schedule a consultation.