subject: Ways You Can Support Others Through Their Grief Process [print this page] If someone you care about has experienced a death in the family, or the death of anyone close to them, of course you want to be there to give your support. However, this is not a simple task. It can be quite the uncomfortable or awkward situation. Its always hard to know the right things to say, or the right actions to take. This is when you should take a look at the little things that they need.
People who are dealing with the grief process are typically too preoccupied, timid, or depressed to ask for the help they really need. This is when you can take the initiative and help the most. Of course, you will only help if they accept your offer, but you can make the situation easier for them by insisting before they ask.
For example, if you are going out, ask if they need to be driven anywhere. Let them know when you are going to the grocery store and ask if there are any items you can pick up for them. While you are at their home, take care of any little chores that you can without making them feel uncomfortable. If the person has children or pets, take the initiative to care for them and offer to take the kids anywhere they need to be taken. Offer to babysit if the parents need a bit of time to themselves.
There are plenty of little ways you can help a grieving person. As they are mourning, the smallest chore can feel like a monumental burden. By making yourself available, lending a helping hand, and taking initiative, you can lighten their load and make the road to recovery at least a little easier.
While your help with the day-to-day errands is very supportive, your presence can really be the biggest benefit of all. Sometimes what grieving people really need is a bit of company, but they are afraid to ask for it. Maybe they would attend a support group, but they dont want to go alone. Offer to go with them. Maybe they are feeling lonely, but are too embarrassed to admit it. You can take the initiative and propose an activity to enjoy together. Do not wait to be ask; instead, anticipate their needs. If you believe they are having a difficult time coping and understanding, give or lend them a supportive book that they can use as a resource. The ways you can help are truly endless; you will learn to spot them.
