How Do You Help A Loved One Cope With Grief?
Not only is it difficult to cope with the grief of losing someone, it’s especially hard when the person grieving is your loved one. It hurts you to see them in pain and you want to help but you don’t know how. Learning what to expect from someone who is grieving can help you support them better. Be strong. Your loved one is going through a very emotional period in their lives and they will need you by their side constantly. Don’t tell them to “be strong” – show your strength instead. Recognize that at first, your loved one may be in a state of shock and disbelief. Be patient and gentle with them as you both try to comprehend the details of the loss. Your loved one may also experience denial. This is normal. Don’t try to force them to accept the loss immediately. After some time, you may notice your loved one trying to ‘bargain’ – for example, they may say they will quit smoking or start volunteering more in order to avoid what happened. Again, be patient. Listen but don’t encourage – e
