Expert Contributor by Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr., F.D. DANJOLELL Memorial Homes
How to Help a Grieving Friend Walking beside a friend who has lost a loved one is no small task. It’s a journey that will test you, and at times, have you feeling helpless because you can’t take away their pain. As difficult as the road ahead will be, there are a few things you can do to offer your friend comfort, hope and healing. Show Up Don’t say “Let me know if you need anything.” Under normal circumstances, many people aren’t comfortable asking for help because they don’t want to burden others. When people are grieving, their normal ability to make decisions is overwhelmed by intense painful emotions. This is your time to step up by taking care of the things you know they need. It could be a simple trip to the grocery store, delivering a favorite meal or lending a helping hand with the yardwork. Now is the time to talk less and do more.
Listen Sometimes people just need someone who will sit with them and listen. Your friend may want to talk about how they’re feeling or just share stories of their loved one. In either case, it’s important to remember to say less and listen more. Of course it is hard to accept and acknowledge that your words cannot fix this or make it all better, but your friend will appreciate your silence more than you know. When grief can be expressed verbally, and without judgement, space is created for good feelings such as acceptance and peace of mind.
Honoring The Life of a Loved One
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D’ANJOLELL Memorial Home of Broomall 2811 West Chester Pike Broomall, PA 19008 610-356-4200 Robert L. D’Anjolell, Jr. F.D. 12
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