If you have had a similar loss, you can give tremendous support to the grieving person, but don't suggest that you know exactly what they're going through
Moldy oldie! To the bereaved, each day can seem like an eternity. Besides, how do you know that "time will heal" them? Time alone doesn't heal, but what one does with their time can help the healing process. Alternative - "You must feel as if this pain will never end..."
The grieving person probably will not call you. You must take the initiative and be specific so that they know your offer is genuine and not cliché!
These types of "Be Strong" statements can be interpreted to say "Don't cry in front of me!" Children and teens can take statements like these literally, which may cause them to repress their grief feelings. Alternatives - "Make sure you’re taking care of you…I can imagine how hard this must be."
"Get On With Life" clichés tell the grieving person that "We're tired of hearing this!" The time it takes for one to work through his or her grief is highly individual. There is no set time in which one should "get over it." Alternative - "I know it will take a long time for you to feel better, and I want to help you as much as I can. Teach me how."
Alternative- "I cannot tell you what to do because I am not you, and I don't know exactly what you're going through." “I've had a similar experience, so I have an idea of what you must feel. What I learned/helped me is...."
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