Offering Support After a Loss

As we navigate through life, each of us carries a unique story, leaving behind memories that shape our world and give it meaning. There are times when offering the right support to a close family member or relative is challenging. Knowing how to react and what to say does not necessarily come to mind. If one of your relatives is going through a difficult time,  offering support is paramount. MyBio.life is here to help you offer them comfort with insightful tips.

 

 

How to Support Your Loved One After a Loss

When one of your closest and dearest is facing a loss, they experience a range of emotions, including depression, anger, and profound sadness. It’s natural to feel uncomfortable and scared to face their emotions, but offering support is crucial.

• Listen with an Open Heart

  • We recommend expressing your condolences and letting them know that you are there for them if they need someone to rely on.
  • Listen without judgment. Sometimes, the simple act of sharing memories or feelings can be incredibly therapeutic.

• Offer Practical Assistance

  • They may find it challenging to manage daily tasks. Offer specific assistance with grocery shopping, meal preparation, or household duties. 
  • Be proactive in your support, as many people are hesitant to ask for help during difficult times. By reducing the burden of decision-making, you can provide assistance.

• Respect Their Grieving Process

  • Understand that grief is a personal journey. Allow them the space and time they need to grieve in their own way.
  • Respect cultural or religious practices that may influence their grieving process, whether you agree with it or not. 

• Show Support Through Thoughtful Gestures

  • Sometimes, they say that small gestures like sending a sympathy card, flowers, or a comforting meal speak louder than words. .
  • Consider creating a memorial keepsake or a scrapbook to celebrate the life of the person they lost.
  • Consider sending one of our text messages to brighten their day a little more.

• Check-In Regularly

  • Grief is an ongoing process. It is ok if support comes over time. Continue to check in regularly, even weeks or months later.

 

 

What Not to Do

While we may be afraid to say the wrong thing or worsen the situation, it’s important to remember that your loved one just needs your support, knowing you are there for them. We recommend not providing answers or advice just to appear helpful. Assisting others in navigating grief requires a delicate touch, and certain actions, even if well-intentioned, may cause distress. Here’s a guide on what to avoid:

Avoiding the Topic of Loss

Ignoring the loss or avoiding discussing it may make the grieving individual feel isolated. Acknowledge their pain and offer a listening ear when they are ready to talk.

Minimising Their Pain

Avoid phrases like “I know how you feel” or attempting to minimise their grief with statements like “time heals all wounds.” Instead, acknowledge their pain without trying to fix it.

Comparing Losses

Every loss is unique, and comparing it to others’ experiences can be hurtful. Resist the urge to share stories of similar losses unless invited to do so.

Imposing Your Beliefs:

Respect your loved one’s beliefs and don’t try imposing your own. Remember that everyone copes differently.

Disappearing After the Initial Shock:

Grief doesn’t adhere to a timeline, and ongoing support is crucial. Avoid disappearing after the initial shock; instead, continue to check in and provide a steady presence.

 

 

If you’re currently researching ways to show support after a loved one’s loss, congratulations on taking this important step. 

We’re glad you made it to this blog post. As there is much more to know about grief, we recommend you read our blog post on the emotional stages of grief. Not only will it help you provide more support to your loved one, but it will also help you understand them better.