Talking and Listening to a Grieving Person

While you should never force someone to open up, it is important to let your bereaved friend or loved one know that you are available to listen if they wish to discuss their loss. Discuss the deceased person candidly, and don’t avoid the subject if the deceased’s name comes up; and, when it seems appropriate, ask sensitive questions that invite the grieving person to openly express their feelings without being nosy. Simply asking if they want to talk lets your loved one know that you’re willing to listen. Look into the cremation services in Lakewood, WA for more information.

You can also help the bereaved by doing the following.

Show Your Concern

You may say that you are sorry to hear that this happened.

Recognize the Situation

You could, for example, say something as simple as you heard that the father of the bereaved died. By saying those words, you will demonstrate that you are more willing to discuss how the grieving person truly feels.

Communicate With Sincerity

Don’t try to minimize their loss by offering simplistic solutions or unsolicited advice. It is far better to simply listen to your loved one or to humbly express that you are not sure what to say, but you want the bereaved to know that you care.

Inquire About Your Loved One’s Feelings

Because grief emotions can change quickly, don’t assume you know how the bereaved person feels at any given time. If you’ve experienced a similar loss, please share your story if you think it will help others; but keep in mind that grief is a highly personal experience. Because no two people have the same experience, don’t claim to know what the person is feeling or compare your grief to theirs. Put the emphasis back on listening, and ask your loved one how they’re feeling.

Accept Your Loved One’s Emotions

Allow the person who is bereaved to cry, become angry, or break down in front of you. Don’t argue with them about how they should or should not feel. Grief is an intensely emotional experience, so the bereaved must feel free to express their emotions, no matter how irrational, without fear of being judged, argued against, or criticized.

Allow the Bereaved to Discuss How Their Loved One Died

Grieving people may need to tell their story over and over again, sometimes in minute detail. Please be patient. Retelling the story is a way of dealing with and accepting death. The pain lessens with each retelling. You are assisting your loved one in healing by listening patiently and compassionately.

Be Prepared to Sit in Silence

If the person in mourning does not want to talk, do not press. Often, simply being in your company brings them comfort. If you can’t think of anything to say, simply make eye contact, squeeze their hand, or give them a reassuring hug.

Offer your assistance. Inquire about what you can do to assist the bereaved person. Offer to assist with a specific task, such as funeral arrangements, or simply be available to hang out with or as a shoulder to cry on. The cremation services in Lakewood, WA are available to provide you with additional information. We understand how difficult it is to be in this situation. Please do not hesitate to contact us or visit our office.