Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be an overwhelming ordeal, so when someone close to you is grieving, they need your support. The funeral planning professionals at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals understand that, while you may also feel as though you don’t want to intrude or say the wrong thing, the support and comfort you provide can help your loved one heal. Here, Morehead, KY’s, premier funeral home discusses how you can help a grieving friend or family member.

How to Help a Loved One Deal With Loss

Understand What to Expect

There isn’t one way to grieve, so it isn’t uncommon for someone coping with loss to go through a variety of emotions. While mourning, someone could experience anger, denial, confusion, sadness, guilt, or despair. Moods can change quickly and vary in intensity. All of these feelings are normal and appropriate for someone coping with loss.

Know How to Listen

Saying the wrong thing to someone is a fear many people have when trying to give support. Though offering words of comfort and encouragement are good, active, compassionate listening is better. Take cues from your grieving loved one. Never force them to discuss their emotions. Let them know that you’re there to listen if they want to talk, and allow them to take control of the conversation. They need to know that their feelings are valid and acknowledged. Also, try not to steer them away from discussing the deceased. Instead, speak honestly, and allow them to do the same. 

Offer Assistance

Sometimes when a person is grieving, they have difficulties going through their day-to-day activities, especially if they are also in the midst of funeral planning. Consider assisting them with tasks like packing and sorting rooms in the deceased’s home. You can also help by running errands, preparing meals, or assisting with their young children. No matter which tasks you’re willing to help them with, be sure to stick to your words. It will show the bereaved that you are sincerely there to help them. 

Since 1976, the compassionate team at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals has helped families throughout Rowan, Morgan, and Bath counties cope with the loss of loved ones. Their dedicated team is committed to helping clients honor their loved ones by providing funeral planning, memorials, burials, and cremation services. They even offer funeral pre-planning. Call (606) 784-6491 to speak with a helpful team member, or visit them online to learn more about their services and grief resources.