Grief comes in many different forms and can be the result of a number of life-altering experiences, including the death of a loved one, divorce, miscarriage, or a significant change in health or career. The stages of grief are not linear, and everyone navigates them on their own time frame. Luckily, grief can be processed, and with support, healing is possible.
Grief doesn’t have to be a solo journey for your loved one. Here is how you can support them through the process.
Be an Active Listener
After someone experiences a traumatic event or the death of a loved one, many assume they want to be left alone. In reality, many grieving people appreciate the opportunity to be heard.
- Create a safe, judgment-free space for your loved one to talk.
- Let them share their story at their own pace.
- Don’t worry about having the “right” thing to say – just listening is often enough.
Actively listening without trying to fix or redirect the conversation is one of the most supportive things you can do. Your presence and validation matter.
Talk About the Grief-Inducing Situation
If your loved one is grieving the death of someone close to them, don’t shy away from talking about that person:
- Say their name.
- Share memories.
- Encourage storytelling.
If the grief stems from a traumatic experience, acknowledge that the event happened. Naming and validating the pain can support their healing process.
Keep it Real and Honest
Avoid toxic positivity or clichéd platitudes like:
- “At least they lived a long life.”
- “Everything happens for a reason.”
While well-intended, these statements can feel invalidating. Grief is raw and complex, and your honesty helps create space for your loved one to feel and process what they need to.
Respect Boundaries
Everyone grieves differently. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
- Offer help without pushing it.
- Observe nonverbal cues.
- Don’t expect them to know what they need right away.
Sometimes, the best support comes from simply showing up and quietly being present.
Refrain from Being a Fixer
It’s natural to want to ease a loved one’s pain. But grief is not something you can fix.
- Resist the urge to problem-solve.
- Sit with their pain instead of trying to remove it.
- Let them lead the pace of the conversation and healing.
Support doesn’t mean taking away the sadness. It means being there through it.
Limit Social Media Coverage
In our age of oversharing, be mindful of posting about someone else’s loss.
- Avoid sharing photos, memories, or condolences without consent.
- What might feel like a tribute to you could feel intrusive or triggering to someone else.
Privacy, especially during vulnerable times, is powerful and respectful.
New in 2025: Grief and Technology
As of 2025, more people are using digital tools like AI grief bots, online grief groups, and memorial platforms. While these tools can be helpful:
- Encourage your loved one to seek human connection as well.
- Balance screen time with in-person or phone support.
- Help them evaluate the credibility of online grief resources.
The digital world offers support, but nothing replaces authentic presence.
Q&A: Supporting Someone Through Grief
Q: What should I say to someone grieving when I don’t know what to say? A: Simple statements like “I’m here for you” or “I care about you” go a long way. Avoid trying to fix the grief or offering explanations.
Q: Is it okay if they don’t want to talk? A: Yes. Respect their space and let them know you’re available when they’re ready.
Q: How long does the grieving process last? A: There is no set timeline. Some people begin to feel more like themselves after a few months, while others take years. Grief is deeply individual.
Q: Can therapy help with grief? A: Absolutely. Grief counseling provides a supportive, nonjudgmental space to process loss and develop healthy coping tools.
Q: What if I say the wrong thing? A: It’s okay to make mistakes. If you’re coming from a place of love and empathy, your support will still be meaningful.
If you have a loved one struggling with grief, encourage them to reach out. Therapy can be a powerful tool in navigating loss and reclaiming peace. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about grief counseling.
