Grieving people aren’t always sure how to approach you, and it may be difficult to gauge their level of need. Here are some tips for how to help someone who is grieving by offering support, avoiding judgments, listening attentively, and creating a nonjudgmental space. These actions will go a long way to alleviating the grief. Don’t try to fix their moods – they may just need space to sort their thoughts and feelings.
Avoiding Judgments
While you may want to lend a sympathetic ear to a grieving friend, remember that grief is an intensely personal experience and is best handled without making judgments about the person. While it is tempting to try to simplify the situation, this approach is not helpful. Instead, focus on listening to your friend and allowing them to grieve at their own pace. You might also want to avoid sending them too many cards or being overly committed to helping. As much as possible, choose a group of friends who can support you and the person who is grieving.
Listening
While talking to a person who is grieving can be helpful, try to refrain from making comments to prevent the situation from getting worse. Instead, try to listen without interruption and show that you are present and supportive. By listening, you will make the bereaved person feel heard, understood, and more likely to open up to you. Try not to set expectations or criticize them. Simply being present and available is enough. Be a real friend to a how to help someone who is grieving. It takes a lot of commitment, but it will pay off when the person can turn to you for emotional support. Try not to dismiss the grieving person’s grief as a sign of your own incompetence.
Creating a Nonjudgmental Space
Creating a non-judgmental space for a grieving friend or loved one is vital to the healing process. While grief can be overwhelming and debilitating, the grieving person needs support and time to process their feelings. By offering a safe and non-judgmental environment, you will allow them to move through their feelings.
Sharing a Story or Memory
When a grieving person is unable to process the loss of a loved one, it can be comforting to share a memory or story. Sharing a story can provide an outlet for emotions that might otherwise overwhelm the grieving person. Remember that your compassionate and sympathetic listening will help the grieving person process the loss. You might be able to find solace in a similar experience.
