Ways to Console Someone Who Lost a Loved One
Coping with the loss of a loved one is one of the most difficult times in anyone’s life. One cannot fathom the pain and grief someone who has lost a person they love is going through. If you’re trying to console a friend who is going through a difficult time, then know that patience and your support are two important factors. They’re under a whirlwind of emotions, and sometimes, it can be hard to get your sincere intentions across. With that said, here are some ways that might help you console someone who lost a loved one.
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1. Give them a hug
Sometimes, the best way to relay how much we care is not through words but through deeds. And a warm hug from someone could allow one to let all those pent up emotions out. Moreover, hugging helps lower a person’s stress levels throughout the day.
2. Listen to what they have to say
While telling them through words that you understand how they feel could help, during times of extreme stress, it’s best to help by being a good listener. Allow your friend to grieve about their loss, to let their pent up emotions out. Being a good listener can help.
3. Bring them food
Our favorite meals are one of the little comforts we can go to whenever we feel down. This is the reason why often, the best way to console someone who lost a loved one is to bring them their favorite food. It shows how much you care for them and is a way to remind them not to forget about taking some time to take good care of their mental and physical wellbeing.
4. Help them with their daily routine
When things get busy and hectic, a friend who lost a loved one might have no time to take care of their regular daily tasks. This is another item you can help them with. When they find it hard to work on their tasks, you can offer to help them out. Get their groceries for them, walk their dog, or volunteer to assist on tasks like serving food to guests during wake. The willingness to be with them during one of their most difficult moments is a gesture that will show them that you’re there for them whatever happens and will provide strength to get them through the hard times.
5. Reminisce about the happier times
Moments of sadness can overshadow the bright side of life. So, help them see that even though things might look bleak at the moment, it will pass. Remind them of the happy times they spent with their beloved and be with them as they relive the days and remember the conversations they had. Let them see that the memories they spent together will never be forgotten and that although their beloved left them, they’d stay in their hearts for the rest of time.
5. Offer to stay with them
Your company is one of the most wonderful things you can offer your friend during this time of grief. Stay with them, keep them company, and let them know that you’re with them and that they can count on you to support them during this dire time. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is to show our love and care by being there with them.
6. Call them regularly
If distance makes it difficult to stay close to them, utilize the power of technology and stay in touch often. Call them or send them a message regularly to let them know that even though you’re not with them physically, your heart grieves with them. Show them how much you care by staying in touch.
7. Send them flowers
Flowers relay our feelings and deep condolences. Let your friend know that you’re there for them by sending flowers. Lilies, chrysanthemums, roses, and orchids are great options for sending to the bereaved.
8. Be patient with them
Please be aware that not everyone can keep their cool during this time of grief and people react to sadness differently. Some people welcome other people’s care while others might find it quite difficult to accept. If they try to push you away or if they do not respond the way you expect, be patient. They are going through a difficult time. Thus, they might not be totally aware of their actions. So, don’t be angry. Don’t respond negatively. Instead, understand where they’re coming from and what they’re going through and let them know that you are with them.
Consoling someone who lost a loved one isn’t easy. However, showing them in any way that you care for them can somehow ease the pain of losing someone they love. Be patient and understanding, and show them that you’re there for them.
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