Offering Sympathy After a Death

Offering Sympathy After a Death

Offering Sympathy After a Death

Everyone reacts to the death of a loved one differently. Each time that a loved one passes away is a unique experience. If someone that you know has just suffered a death, then here are some things you might want to keep in mind.

Ask the Person About Their Feelings

If you have experienced a very similar death, then you may think that you know how the person is doing. The truth, however, is that you do not know. Therefore, ask the person how they are doing. Take the time to listen to precisely what they are saying.

Admit You Don’t Know What to Say

It is very acceptable to admit that you do not know what to say when someone has suffered a devastating loss. After asking the person how they are doing, sometimes the best thing that you can do is to be there. Many people find the physical presence of others comforting. Respect, however, if your friend wants some alone time.

Suggest Ways That You Can be Supportive

People often ask what they can do at a time of loss, but most people think that people are just being friendly when this occurs. Instead, suggest things that you can do to help the person during this time. It may be picking up children from school, arranging a meal train, or taking their animals to your home for a few days while the house is full of visiting friends and family.

Acknowledge the Loss

Sometimes people try to ignore that a loss has occurred when they are speaking to someone. Understand that the thought of the person who has passed away is never far from the individual’s mind. Therefore, acknowledge the loss. It is acceptable to use the word “died” and its derivatives.

Do Not Forget Your Friend

Many times, after someone has died, there are many people around in the first few days. Then, everyone goes back to their routine. Make a reminder on your smartphone to check up on the person regularly. They will appreciate you checking on them, even if it just a quick text. Make sure that they still feel included in all your activities and are welcome to join you at any time.

Be a Great Listener

Even if you have heard the story a million times, it is essential to be a great listener after someone has passed away. Telling the stories can be a very therapeutic way to work through the emotions that a person is feeling. Laugh at the funny parts. If you have your own memories of the individual, do not be afraid to share those.

Suggest Individual Counseling

If you notice that the person seems to be having a hard time getting on with their life, then you may want to suggest individual counseling in Orlando. You may even want to make a day of it by planning a meal ahead or behind the appointment and doing the driving.

Orlando Thrive Therapy is experienced in grief therapy. Call them today to set up individual counseling in Orlando.

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Heather Oller

Heather Oller is the owner and founder of Orlando Thrive Therapy, Coaching, and Counseling. She is a licensed counselor and a family mediator who has over 23 years of dedicated work as a professional in the mental health field. Through her company's mission, she continues to pave the way for future therapists, and their clients, who want a higher quality of life....and who want to thrive, rather than just survive. You can contact Orlando Thrive Therapy at (407) 592-8997 for more information.