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When a friend or family member is dealing with painful feelings of loss and anguish, it’s difficult to know how to support them. You want to help, but you’re worried about intruding, saying the wrong thing, or making them uncomfortable. The truth is that after the death of a loved one, even the smallest of gestures can mean a lot to your friend or family member. You don’t have to go in all guns blazing, subtle reassurances and your presence alone can provide comfort and support during this difficult time.

Let’s explore some of the most helpful things you can do for a grieving friend or family member.

Gift them a memorial piece

Offering sympathy and your condolences through cards and flowers is traditional after a loss, but you could consider taking this a step further. Gifting them a memorial piece of jewellery from this unique sympathy gift collection of feather jewellery will certainly outlive the abundance of cards and flowers they have. Memorial jewellery is a simple yet emotive gesture of remembrance and comfort during this dark time. Gifting a personalized pet gifts, ring, necklace or bracelet as a memento of loss and cherished memories, will help your friend to keep their departed loved one close, and honour their memory.

Offer practical help

Sometimes grief can be so encompassing that those suffering neglect to take care of themselves or find it difficult to function and complete simple tasks. As a friend, you can step in and relieve some of that pressure and ensure that they’re looking after themselves. The littlest of gestures can mean the most, such as doing the laundry, taking the kids to school, running errands or filling their freezer with nutritious meals. Many friends may rebuff your offer of practical help, either due to a lack of motivation or energy. So, help them. Instead of stating, “let me know if there’s anything I can do,” consider saying, “I’m heading to the supermarket this afternoon, what can I get you?”

Accept their feelings – don’t challenge them

Grief affects us all differently. Sometimes it’s with emotional outbursts, often it’s through silence and reservedness. Don’t try to reason with them, or evoke a reaction that you think would suit their level of grief. Accept how they’re expressing their sadness and do so without judgement.

Be wary of the signs of depression

The loss of a loved one can take its toll on our mental health, and it’s during the months or even years that follow, that you should be wary of the signs of depression. If their symptoms of grief don’t seem to fade over time, or if they get progressively worse, then you should reach out to them and voice your concerns. Warning signs include, neglecting their own health and hygiene, substance abuse, talking about suicide, or a constant sense of hopelessness.

And finally, be in it for the long haul

Grief doesn’t magically disappear a few days after the funeral, as a friend offering support you need to be in it for the long haul. Remember to check in with your friends, and continue to offer help. They’ll need it now, more than ever.