Here are eight ways to help you support your friend in times of need.1. The person grieving may struggle for longer than expected. Variables include the cause and length of death, the personal resiliency of the grieving person, what their previous experiences have been, how large their support network is and their relationship to the person lost.
If this happens, regardless of how frustrating or frightening it may be for you, let them grieve for however long they need, knowing you won't judge them for it.2. Most people suffering a loss will go through these stages, often in no particular order and sometimes repeating stages: denial, bargaining, anger, depression and acceptance. The more familiar you are with these stages, the better equipped you'll be to support your friend.3. Be understanding of how this can change their experience of grief from your own or someone else you have known.4. We are often inclined to praise the person who appears to be coping stoically with a loss.
The problem is that we need to allow them to be human and vulnerable sometimes, too.
After all, there's strength in letting out your emotions from time to time.5. Funerals and memorial services work to give support and closure to the bereaved.
If there are children involved, keeping positive memories alive often helps children to know that it’s okay to talk about their parent and share their feelings.