how to help a bereaved person

how to console a bereaved family, friend, or colleague following the death of a loved one

The death of a loved one is the tip of the iceberg and there is a glacier of change occurring within a family, often invisible to others.

The death of a loved one can send shockwaves through a family’s health and well-being. It can be daunting and intimidating to engage with a bereaved person during this time, but it is essential for them to know they are not alone and their community cares for them.

Whether you are looking to support bereaved children, parents, siblings or spouses, each family member is grieving their loss. Sometimes it’s hard to know how to offer support to a grieving relative, friend or colleague. We may be afraid of saying the wrong thing, so we say nothing at all, which may leave the bereaved person feeling isolated and alone. Each member may respond or grieve differently, but there are some common things you can do to be supportive.

Acknowledge their loss, and listen unconditionally and without judgement. Avoid offering platitudes in an effort to “make them feel better.” Expect their grief to ebb and flow daily, if not for years. This is normal. Help bereaved loved ones find ways to remember and honour who they have lost. Respect everyone’s experiences and grief. Be mindful of holidays or other important dates. Be sure to honour both the life and the absence of their loved one.

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