Wonderful Ways to Help Someone Who’s Grieving

By: Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services
Monday, September 10, 2018

Most people truly want to help a friend who’s experiencing a severe loss. Words often fail us at times like these, leaving us stammering for the right thing to say.

Some people are so afraid to say or do the wrong thing that they choose to do nothing at all. That’s an option but it’s probably not the best one. While there is no one perfect way to support someone you care about, here are some good ideas to consider:

  • Tackle challenging projects together. Depending on the circumstance, there may be difficult tasks that need tending to, such as casket shopping and mortuary visits. Offer your assistance and follow your friend’s lead in these tasks.
  • Anticipate, don’t ask. Do not say “Call me if you need anything”, because your friend won’t call. Not because they don’t have a need, but because identifying what needs to be done and figuring out who to ask is beyond their energy or capacity at this challenging time. Instead, make concrete offers, such as, “I’ll stop by each morning on my way to work and give the dog a walk, OK?” And then do what you say you’re going to. Reliability is paramount.
  • Don't avoid mentioning the person who passed. He or she is still very much in the mind of your grieving friend. Instead, reminisce or mention how the deceased inspired you or made you happy. Don't be afraid to say things like, "Wouldn't Shirley have loved these flowers?"
  • Take care of the recurring things. The heavy work of grieving is not something you can do, but you can lessen the burden of routine life requirements for your friend. Are there recurring tasks or chores that you might do? Things like picking up some groceries, shoveling snow, and bringing in the mail are all good choices. Supporting your friend in small, ordinary ways is tangible evidence of your concern and affection.
  • Check in on them, now and later. At the time of a funeral, many people offer help and support to the bereaved. But as the weeks and months pass, everyone’s lives move forward and their support often wanes. Be the person who follows up.
  • Love them. Above all, demonstrate your love. Show up. Be willing to stand steadfastly beside your grieving friend. Listen. Be present. In the end, love is the thing that endures.

Your love and support can make all the difference to your grieving friend. Please contact us for other supportive ways you can assist someone through their journey of loss. We’re always here for you.

About Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services: As a leading African American-owned and operated funeral and cremation organization serving  three states, Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services has provided a ministry of care to thousands of grieving families. We promise to provide our highest level of distinguished service and respect to families who entrust us to honor their loved one. In all aspects of the funeral process, we strive to be the absolute best and are honored to help preserve our clients’ legacies for future generations.  For more information, please call us at 215-549-4700 or visit our website.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

How to Sort Through Your Departed Loved One’s Belongings and Keep their Memory Alive

Going through a loved one’s belongings after they have passed away is often difficult but you can make the process easier. Just as there is no right way to grieve, there is no specific time that y...

May is Stroke Awareness Month. Knowing The Warning Signs Could Save Your Life.

This year, recognize Stroke Awareness Month by learning more about stroke prevention and detection. When it comes to strokes, every second counts! Nearly two million brain cells die each minute a ...

If You Can’t Sleep, These Seven Surprising Culprits Might Be to Blame

Do you find yourself lying awake in bed or tossing and turning all night? If you can’t sleep, these sneaky slumber thieves could be the cause. Sleep disorders affect an estimated 33% of Americans....

How Much Do You Know About Senior Home Safety?

While familiar surroundings can be comforting as we grow older, home safety measures require extra attention. Changes that come with the aging process like declining vision, hearing, and bone dens...

Honor Your Departed Loved One with These Creative Outdoor Memorial Ideas

Outdoor memorial ideas can range from basic stones to elaborate gardens. Finding a special way to pay tribute to a departed loved one can bring great comfort. Think about the one who passed on and...

It’s Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. Here are Seven Important Things to Know.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects nearly 1 million adults in the United States and those numbers are growing. MS is both a complex disease of the central nervous system and an autoimmune condition. ...

Do You Know the Rules for Legally Scattering Ashes?

As more and more people choose cremation, questions about legally scattering ashes are on the rise, too.   Ash scattering has become an increasingly popular way to remember the departed. It p...

Four Important Things to Know About the Tax Issues When Losing a Spouse in Pennsylvania

The tax issues when losing a spouse in Pennsylvania are varied and complex. Losing a spouse or life partner is challenging on many levels. In addition to the deep emotional grief and personal loss...

Hobbies and Five Other Activities That Can Help Create a Healthier Brain

Can a healthier brain be as close as your chessboard? The experts say yes. As we age, the structure of the brain changes, which can adversely affect memory and cognition. It can be challenging to ...

Six Helpful Tips for Discussing Your Funeral Plans with Your Family

The most crucial conversations are often the hardest, and discussing your funeral plans with loved ones is a prime example. Talking about your funeral preferences with a spouse, parent, or child i...