What can you say to a person who has lost a loved one? -Aplifers

Many of us may be inexperienced and indecisive about how we should respond and express our emotions when faced with difficult situations. When a loved one loses a loved one, it can be difficult for us to find the words to express our grief in the most accurate way. No matter how much we share and feel his pain inside, we may not be able to find something to say. Moreover, whatever we say, we may not think that any word will be sufficient and good.

The most important thing to remember in this process is that accepting the loss of another person and simply being there helps our grieving relative feel a little better and not be alone. However, some phrases can help both you and your grieving loved one:

‘My thoughts and prayers are with you’

You can spend time with someone to make them feel that their loss is important to you as well. AND “I’m sorry for your loss, condolences.To reflect a more sincere feeling, as well as sentences such as “My thoughts and prayers are with you.You can say. This phrase can help you feel that you are there not only physically, but also mentally and spiritually.

“I don’t know exactly what you’re going through, but I can guess”

Even if you’ve already experienced loss, remember that it’s impossible to know exactly what another person is going through when they lose a loved one. By saying that you can only guess how much their pain is, you can make the mourners feel respected and feel more comfortable.

“If you want to talk, I’m here to listen”

Remember that a grieving person does not need to be corrected, counseled, or forced into competition. Remember that he may just want to be heard. Let him know that you heard him and are ready to listen when he decides to speak, when he is ready. If he wants to talk about something other than his loss, respect that too. This does not mean that they are in denial or avoiding the situation, it may simply indicate that you are not yet ready to talk. Simply saying that you are here to listen is enough.

Are there others who can support you?

A bereaved person may feel lonely even when there are other people around. Asking her if she has the support she needs will give her the opportunity to explore her needs for more support. If, depending on your relationship, you are unable or unable to provide this strong support network, you may be able to offer help to get more sources of support.

‘How are you?’

You may think it’s inappropriate to ask a grieving person how you are doing. However, instead of assuming how the person felt after the loss, by asking a direct question, you can control their reactions and emotions and connect with them in the moment.

What do you need most right now?

When your loved one is bereaved, you may be tempted to do whatever you can to support them. By asking him what he needs most, you can identify your unmet needs and start delegating your responsibilities if he doesn’t have enough physical, mental and emotional resources to meet them. Maybe he needs support to get settled at home, or something basic like cleaning and cooking.

– Do you need to be alone?

While you want to help and support your loved one who has lost a loved one, it is wrong to assume that they will always want you by their side. Instead, ask if she needs to be alone, tell her that you can give her time and space, but remind her that you can come back at any time, this will help her feel more comfortable. While it can be hard to let a loved one grieve alone, it’s important to respect the space and time they need.

‘As much as you want…’

You can articulate her current situation to let her know that you know your loved one needs time to sort out their feelings. “You can be alone as long as you want, you can stay here, you can cry, you can talk…” You can make him feel that you know that he has the right to behave the way he does, whatever he wants to do, however he feels. This can help relieve pressure on your grieving relative.

Also remember that sometimes words are not needed, hugs, sincere hugs, a firm handshake, a light touch on the shoulder can say much more than words. Non-verbal ways to express your condolences may include:

• To bring hot food
• Buying flowers and going to visit,
• Sending a message that makes you feel like it’s on your mind
• Depending on your relationship, installing a dishwasher, cleaning the kitchen table, or cleaning up the clutter around the house can be meaningful ways to show that you’re there for her and that you’re doing everything you can to help her get through tough times.

Finally, remember a few points to respect the grief of the person who is high during all your statements and actions, and treat them with the greatest possible empathy:

• Put yourself in the place of the listener and try to understand their feelings.
• Sit quietly with him or accompany him to the class he is grieving about.
• When talking to her, speak casually and naturally, but respect her feelings and avoid saying things that are overly cheerful or positive.
• Ask if she needs help.
• Remember that the help you can give is limited and he must go through the grieving process at his own pace, in his own way.
• Let him tell about the person he lost and listen.
• Let him feel that you are with him and that your support will continue forever.

It would be helpful to take a look at our various articles on the grieving process:

How should a grieving person be helped?
“Forty candles in the heart”: Grief and acceptance after grief
Psychology of mourning: how to get through this difficult process?