When someone in your community organization has lost a loved one, you want to be there for them. A bereaved person needs people who can empathize with their grief and prevent them from feeling alone. However, you might not be sure what kind of help is best to give. The guide below offers advice for this situation.

Do:

Listen more than talking.

Talking about their emotions and their lost loved one is a great comfort to someone grieving. Sit and listen to them, and don’t feel like you need to say anything. You can simply tell them you’re sorry. Avoid cliché platitudes such as, ”They’re in a better place,” or sharing your own stories of loss. These can make it seem you are minimizing their loss.

Offer specific assistance.

Life goes on after a loss, and someone who is bereaved can quickly feel overwhelmed. Well-meaning people tend to offer general support, such as, “Let me know if you need anything.” However, those grieving will usually turn down these offers. Instead, provide something specific. Offer to take over the children’s carpool to school or drop off dinner one night.

Don’t:

Avoid them.

Being around someone grieving can be uncomfortable or sad, but they need you. There are many ways to reach out. You could make a phone call, drop by, send a text, or arrange for food or flowers to be delivered. This can make all the difference in their day, even if it just takes a moment of your time.

Forget about them in the future.

Bereaved families often have a rush of support from their community organizations and friends immediately after their loss. However, months or years down the line, they may still have hard days. Consider reaching out on the birthday of the deceased, anniversaries, and holidays when their loss may feel more potent.

Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church in Dickinson, TX, is a community organization that brings people together for worship, community service, and mutual support. This local non-profit church is headed by Reverend Kevin Reeves, who is dedicated to delivering a strong message of faith, redemption, and family devotion. Learn more about this organization on their website or by calling (409) 218-9339.