14 Ways to Support Someone Through Grief

14 Practical Ways To Support Someone Through Grief

Grief is not a problem to be solved — it’s a process to be witnessed. Whether it’s a friend, colleague, or loved one, knowing how to support someone through grief can feel overwhelming. But the truth is, it’s often the small, consistent gestures that matter most.

Here’s a practical checklist for showing up in a way that’s genuine, compassionate, and long-lasting:

✅ Stay Present Longer Than Expected

Grief doesn’t end after the funeral.
Check in after 1 month, 3 months, 6 months — keep showing up.

✅ Be Your Usual Self

Keep your normal tone, your jokes, your rituals.
Don’t suddenly act like they’re made of glass.

✅ Listen — Don’t Fix

They don’t need solutions — they need to feel heard.
Let their emotions be seen and acknowledged.

✅ Offer Specific Practical Help

Bring a meal. Do a grocery run. School drop-offs.
Wipe the bench. Take the bins out. Small acts count.

✅ Do the Small Things Without Being Asked

Grief makes it hard to ask for help.
Just do the kind thing — no permission needed.

✅ Acknowledge the Loss

Don’t avoid the elephant in the room.
It’s okay — even helpful — to say the person’s name.

✅ Take Care of Their Pets

Offer to walk the dog, feed the cat.
Pets grieve too — they need love and routine.

✅ Keep Including Them

Invite them, even if they might say no.
Let them feel they’re still part of life.

✅ Embrace the Silence

Watch a movie. Sit in quiet. Just be there.
Your presence means everything.

✅ Avoid Pushing Big Decisions

Don’t encourage major life changes too soon.
Help them slow down. Just hold space.

You don’t need perfect words.
You just need to show up, be real, and stay a while.

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