Suffering a bereavement is one of the hardest experiences anyone can go through in life. Receiving love and support from others can make a huge difference, so it’s wonderful that you want to be there for someone who’s grieving and that you’re thinking carefully about how to help them.
Everyone grieves differently, which is part of what makes it so difficult to know what to say and do. When emotions are raw, simply being there and offering your love and time might be what they most need.
Bear in mind that research suggests we find it more difficult to empathise with others than we might think. Don’t assume you know how they’re feeling. Gently try to enquire how they are.
If you’re unsure whether they want to be left alone or not, give them options. Rather than texting “Let me know what I can do”, try something like “I could come over later, if you like?”.
For close relationships, showing up with a prepared meal or offering to help with practical tasks might be really appreciated, but always give them an opt-out (you could offer to leave a meal at the door, for instance, rather than coming in).
