Coping

Mourning Jewelry By Expressions Of Grief

October 17th, 2013

Broken Heart RingAfter the loss of a loved one, those individuals in mourning choose to express their grief in different ways and for different lengths of time. And while the first thing that comes to mind for mourning is wearing all-black, another lesser known tradition is mourning jewelry.

Expressions of Grief specialize in unique and timeless jewelry that can be worn in remembrance of the dearly departed.

Widow’s Rings

Perhaps the most popular of mourning jewelry is the widow’s ring which is worn next to the wedding bands. A widow’s ring is a touchable, visible symbol of altered life change and does not necessarily replace the wedding bands. This ring is worn to reflect grief and to remember. To remove your wedding rings is “A matter of the heart” …not “A matter of time.”

Commemorate Spouses, Parents, Siblings and More

When you have suffered a loss, only you can decide how to honor your loved one. Mourning jewelry is a physical reminder than can be with you daily to help ensure that moving forward does not feel like forgetting.

So many beautiful designs are available that symbolize personal grief, connection and love. Each is crafted with care from durable, high quality materials. For touching stories and more photos, find Expressions of Grief by Diane on Facebook.

Prayer Wheel RingThe Prayer Wheel Ring- A Beautiful and Unique Choice

Introducing a lovely and innovative design, the Prayer Wheel Ring is an Expressions of Grief exclusive. This ring is made of stainless steel with a printed outer black ring that can spin on its base. In Tibet, Prayer Wheels are spun to send a prayer spinning to the heavens. The spin is believed to be the same as saying the prayer out loud so each spin of the ring counts as a time that the prayer is said.

This Prayer Wheel Ring is printed with the words “always in my heart & soul” and can serve as a way to send a silent peaceful message any time it is worn.

The choice of mourning jewelry is very personal and can be a step in a healthy grieving process. When questions are left unanswered and a heart feels broken, having a tangible symbol of love and serenity can be a very powerful thing. Expressions of Grief understand how to craft jewelry that is more than something you wear, but something you always feel.

Celebrations of Life – The Power of A Casual Eulogy

October 15th, 2013

Celebrations of LifeA eulogy given at a funeral service can vary greatly.

Typically given by a close friend or relative, eulogies present the difficult task of putting into words who the lost loved one was in life and how they will be remembered.

Choosing these words can be a monumental task in a time of grief. This story details the experience of witnessing a eulogy given in a refreshing and participatory manner.

My grandmother, simply put, was a building block in my life. My brothers and I spent most of our childhood weekends at her house – certainly every holiday. And because she lived only 8 miles away, she was a frequent sight at our back door bringing in squash and tomatoes from her garden or wanting us to sample some new casserole she was experimenting with.

When I was in college was when I started noticing changes in her. She became curt and easily frustrated. She took every action or non-action as a personal insult and had mood swings that were out of control. She lost interest in her church which baffled everyone. And in a few years after her doctors had first introduced us to the word “dementia” they had to explain a new word to us. Alzheimer’s Disease.

Church InteriorAfter various health problems took their toll, our family maintained in-home nurses to see to her needs as long as possible. But good days grew further apart and after multiple hospitalizations, we reluctantly selected a full care facility.  While she grumbled and complained about the situation, she also was rapidly losing touch. She acted miserable after she was picked up for family events or simple outings, would throw tantrums and refuse her medicine.

While all of this hurtful difficult behavior was classic examples of this disease, the family so rarely caught a glimpse of the warm, funny and intelligent woman my grandmother had been. When she finally succumbed to her health problems and passed away, our family grieved together. We consoled ourselves with the fact that she was at peace now after years what can only be described as suffering.

Despite this sadness, her funeral was everything she would have wanted it to be. So many of her friends and family were able to attend, her flowers looked lovely and she looked well-appointed and at ease resting in her open casket. But I believe she would have be most proud of her daughter who choose to give her eulogy.

While there were a few tears when describing her mother’s life achievements, my aunt spoke only briefly before turning to the congregation. She asked if anyone had any stories they wanted to share. I had never attended a funeral service where the attendees where asked to speak informally. It was as if a barrier had been removed and suddenly friends and family were eagerly standing and telling incredible stories of my grandmother.

Some were short and polite, some were the ones we had heard a million times, others were new or rambling, but all were fascinating. We even laughed together as a large group when her childhood best friend recounted a story that had been retold countless times in her family about being young girls in the 1930s and giving their dolls a bath in a washtub under the clothesline.

Walking out of the funeral home, I found myself with a smile on my face because the love in the room was truly overwhelming. I am so thankful that, after years of losing sense of who this amazing woman was, we were all reminded in a crucial moment exactly who she was and what she had meant to all of us. I believe my grandmother would have felt happy and honored to be remembered in this way.

Childhood Memories

Celebrations of Life is an on-going series that features stories submitted by you that highlight how friends, family, and even strangers celebrate the life of the dearly departed. We keep these stories anonymous to protect identities but also to illustrate the universal experience of losing a loved one. You can share your stories in the comments below.

How Can I Pay Tribute?

June 14th, 2013

Each year hundreds of men and women who serve and protect our communities are lost in the line of duty. Police officers and firefighters put the safety and well-being of their neighborhoods first when they go to work everyday and some pay the ultimate price. Tragedy strikes the entire community when public servants fall. Families and friends must come to terms with the difficult meaning behind a loved one’s service to the world. And a good community has a debt to pay to these everyday heroes.

It is in these situations that you ask “How Can I Pay Tribute?” There are many different ways to show sympathy and respect to fallen service members.

Remembering FirefightersSending Flowers

At the time of the funeral, sending flowers is a wonderful expression of heartfelt respect. They provide a focal point and natural beauty in a trying circumstance. Flowers are an easy way to reach out and are viewed in many different customs and cultures as a sign of sympathy.

Moment of Silence

After a community has experienced loss, normal activities often have to resume quickly. If you are in a leadership position in an organization, big or small, it can be timely and comforting to suggest a moment of silence to remember the fallen. At the next ball game, church service, or even at your book club, publicly acknowledging these events and offering a moment of collective reverence can mean a great deal to everyone.

Candlelight VigilCandlelight Vigil

Organizing a simple meeting in a public space where people light a candle as a symbol of hope can bring peace and solidarity in an uncertain time. This is not the time for involved conversations or providing elaborate refreshments. Maintain an air of decorum and select a place that was meaningful to the lost or holds significance to mourners.

Donations

Offering support to families is a way to honor the deceased in a very real and tangible way. A collection for funeral costs or, on a larger scale, for a public memorial can be a way for an entire community to help pay tribute. Often involving a local bank to accept the donations in the name of the lost can simplify the process for the donors and the recipients.

Bring About Awareness

You may not be able to change a bad situation but you can encourage others with a positive awareness of good deeds. Whether it is wearing an awareness ribbon dedicated to the cause or  creating an opportunity for others to acknowledge lost members of the community, small deeds can be appreciated by those suffering.

An uplifting example includes two young girls in Houston, Texas, who gave the profits of their lemonade stand to benefit local firefighters who perished in a 5-alarm fire. This collection may have been financially small but was huge in bringing about community awareness.

When tragedy reaches into our lives, often it is helpful to the grieving process to reach out to those around you.

There is great strength in numbers and
it is always an appropriate gesture for a community to honor those that serve it.

Is My Child Ready to Attend a Funeral?

July 12th, 2012

“Could my child handle a funeral service?”

As a parent, the emotional health of your child is always at the forefront of your mind.  When a family member or friend passes, it is natural for you to be concerned about their involvement in the funeral services.  You may be feeling grief, anger or even guilt and fear that your child will experience the same difficult emotions.  In the past, it was considered unwise to allow a young child to attend a funeral, primarily based on the high emotions and fear of death it may create. Today though, most funeral homes, psychologists and parents see the funeral as a chance to provide closure for a child who has lost someone they care deeply about and to shed light on the mysterious, and often frightening, concept of death. FSN Funeral Homes has taken the time to list a few considerations you should make when choosing whether or not to allow your child to attend a funeral.

Is my child old enough?

Age is possibly the greatest concern for most who oppose children attending funerals.  Rabbi Earl Grollman, a bereavement specialist and chairman of the National Center of Death Education at Mount Ida College, suggests that, “If a child is old enough to go to church services, that’s old enough to go to a funeral.”

On the other hand, Hospice of the Valley finds that, “When deciding whether your child should attend a funeral or memorial service, age is not the most important consideration. Your child is part of the family, and children who are old enough to love are old enough to grieve.”  From their perspective a healthy grieving process should be supported in all ages.

The primary concern you should truly have is the maturity level of your child.  Can he or she remain quiet?  Is your toddler too restless to sit through a service?  Will your child remain respectful of others? Decide whether or not your child will disturb others during their mourning.  Remember, kids are kids and you cannot expect them to listen intently to every speaker and song.  If the child can be occupied by a  quiet activity, this would be an appropriate distraction.

Attending a Funeral Allows Your Child to Say “Goodbye”

How close was my child to the deceased?

If you feel that your child has a meaningful bond with the deceased, that their loss will  affect them personally, then there is good reason to allow your child to attend the funeral.  Just like adults, children need closure.

The funeral serves the same purpose for children as it does for adults.  The shared mourning and celebration of life are crucial to a healthy acceptance of their loved one’s passing.  Phyllis R. Silverman, a psychologist who has conducted research concerning children who attended a parent’s funeral, stated that she found among those children she interviewed a generally positive perspective.  “They were pleased that there were many people at the funeral who cared for their parent. They talked about the importance of remembering, celebrating their parent’s memory and mourning together. The funeral helped them do that.”

Many parents and psychologists have also found that children appreciate being included in the funeral plans of someone dear to them.  Choosing the casket or deceased’s dress is often offered as good ways to involve them in the decision-making process.  You could also suggest they write a letter or draw a picture to be placed in the casket.

Does my child want to attend the funeral?

While it may seem strange to allow your child to make this decision, giving your child the power of choice will provide them with confidence and control in a time when they are feeling powerless.

If your child is uncertain whether or not they wish to go, there are several reasons they may be hesitant.  They could have unanswered questions or unfounded fears.  For example, Barbara F. Meltz, a child care journalist, explains that referring to the deceased’s “body” may unwittingly create a fear of a headless loved one.  They may not understand the gravity of the situation and find personal, selfish things more appealing – like thinking, “Why would I spend my Saturday with old people?  I want to play ball!”

Do not make the child feel guilty for not wanting to attend, simply ask them why they don’t want to.  Address any concerns they mention honestly and sincerely.  Additionally, many psychologists recommend encouraging the child to attend.  Emphasize the family aspect of the service and the reasons funerals are held – showing respect, celebrating life, and grieving with family.

If your child does choose to attend the funeral, encourage him or her to ask questions and assure them that you want to know how they are feeling.  Conveying openness and a willingness to work with your child will give them the support they need to address their grief. Make sure to thoroughly explain what will happen during the funeral so they fully understand what will take place, eleminating any fear of the unexpected.

The Key to Protecting Your Child

Let your child feel included in the funeral

As an adult, you understand what has happened to a deceased loved one without attending a funeral, but a child has no concept of such things as a casket, grave, or burial if you do not educate them. Imagine never knowing what has happened to a loved one; this is how your child could feel if they are not familiar with the concept of death and funerals.   The best method to ensure your child will be ready for a funeral is to prepare them yourself.  Do not avoid answering questions, but reward curiosity with enthusiasm.  This preparation should address the following aspects:

  • The Funeral Service – Hospice of the Valley suggests you make sure the 5 W’s and H are answered for the child when addressing the funeral service (Who, What, When, Where,  Why and How).
  • The Concept of Death –   Death’s permanence, the separation from a loved one, and the physical body may be difficult concepts for your child to understand.  Be straightforward and avoid euphemisms which may be confusing to your child.
  • The Emotional Aspect –  Describe how some people may be acting at the funeral – crying, quiet, etc. – and open up to your child about how you feel.  Most importantly, make sure your child is comfortable with his or her own feelings.  Let them know that reacting emotionally is natural, but also that he or she will not be expected to act like everyone else.  Everyone mourns differently. Encouraging your child to write, draw, or talk out any feelings they are having is a good way to gauge how they are reacting to the experience.

If you find discussing any of these issues difficult, there is no need to worry. There are plenty of resources out there to help you educate your child on all aspects of death – from the funeral to grief.  Also, when you find the funeral home which will be holding the service, contact the director.  Sometimes they will have special services just for children or at least will be prepared to answer any questions your child may have.

“I hear people say the funeral would be too hard on them.  They are not allowed to say good-bye to loved grandparents because the experience might traumatize them.  In our efforts to protect, we leave it to their imaginations.  That which is left to the imagination is an invitation to nightmares and struggle.”

 – Doug Manning, in The Funeral: A Chance to Touch, A Chance to Serve, A Chance to Heal

While it would be easier to look at this decision as if it were black and white, it’s not. This issue truly is a personal decision based on your individual child – and it should be individually based on each child you have.  Though the parental instinct wants to immediately protect your child from  such a tragic event, opening up to your child about what is going on is the best way to protect them.  As Manning said, avoiding the topic of death simply makes it a more terrifying idea.  Children will try to explain their world in whatever way they can, even death, so leaving them uninformed is simply leaving room for fear.  Whether or not you find attending a funeral would be right for your child, you should take the time to explain to him or her what is going on.  Most importantly, ensure that your child does not feel isolated.  Make sure they understand what is going on, know that there are people they can reach out to, and let them know that their opinions and feelings matter to the family.  Taking the time to reassure and educate your child could make all the difference in how they deal with the loss of a loved one.

Other Resources for Your Consideration:

Father and Son photograph from Kelly B. on Flickr.
Children at Grave photograph from Kratka’s Photography on Flickr.
Girl at Candle Vigil photograph from The U.S. Army on Flickr.

Remembering Lost Loved Ones During the Holidays

May 29th, 2012
Memorial Tree Planting

Remember Loved Ones By Planting A Memorial Tree

The holidays may be a time which brings friends and family closer together, but it’s not easy to celebrate with the loss of a loved one weighing on your mind. While their absence may be painful, there are many beautiful ways to remember those you have lost and to celebrate their life during the holidays.

Overcoming Holiday Sadness through Memorials

If you want to remind yourself and others that a loved one’s passing has not ceased their importance in your life, a memorial can serve as the perfect reminder.  Many different types of memorials are out there and each could be easily personalized with intimate touches. Below are a few examples.

  • A living memorial, such as a tree or rose bush, makes a perfect opportunity to host a memorial service in your loved one’s honor.
  • Annually lighting a candle allows those who participate to take a moment to remember those they have loved and lost and may be displayed in a window for all to see.
  • Christmas ornaments or memorial plaques may be set up with holiday decorations as a seasonal reminder of a loved one’s memory.
  • Hand-maid memorials give kids the opportunity to participate in the remembrance process.  (Ideas and templates  for homemade memorials may be found online.)

Continue reading “Remembering Lost Loved Ones During the Holidays” »

Common Questions Dealing With Grief

September 4th, 2011

A good friend of mine has lost a loved one, should I call or visit right away?

  • Yes. Calling to ask what help is needed is a great way to show sympathy to your friend. Necessary help isn’t always available when it is needed. Visits to the home are usually welcomed if you are close to the bereaved. Call first to inform them of your visit.

Dealing With GriefIs there anything I can say to ‘Make it better’?

  • Grief is a very painful and emotionally draining experience. Words cannot make it better. It is best to help the grieving with support, love and sympathy.

I wasn’t able to go to the funeral or respond right away, is it too late to offer my condolences?

  • It is never too late to share your sympathy. Often, the time after the funeral service is filled with family and friends offering sympathy and love, but as time goes on, the help dwindles. It is never to late to show that you care.

When will my friend get over the grief and go back to her old self?

  • Grief doesn’t have a time line. It is a process that can last years, with ups and downs. It is normal for the grieved to go through stages of fear, shock, pain, anger, guilt, denial, loneliness acceptance and finally recovery. But it takes time and patience. As a friend, the most important thing you can do is be there for them, through their ups and downs.

I feel uncomfortable around my grieving friend. I am trying not to avoid her, but sometimes I feel it’s best. What should I do?

  • Avoiding your friend only adds to their pain. And, can make them feel even worse. Don’t pity your friend, treat them like you normally do. If you can’t find the right words, be open about it and tell them honestly. Sharing a coffee break or a lunch will be a good way to sit and talk about everything.  Once everything is out in the open, your feelings will be easier to express.

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Grieving Children: Questions about Death

August 23rd, 2011

Do children forget quickly and grieve for only a short period?

Children Coping With Grief Although children have shorter attention spans and seem to forget or ignore tragedy and pain, they can actually grieve longer than adults do. The steps of the grieving process  are taken in short spurts because of their attention spans, but they too, have to go through the same steps of grief as an adult. From accepting and comprehending death to recovering and moving on.

Should we include our children at the funeral?

When it comes to children, honesty is key. Children have large imaginations which can make things worse if they are not told what is going on. Children should be encouraged but never forced to take part as a family during the funeral or wake. This is a time for families to come together, share, comfort and mourn together. Your child shouldn’t be left out.

Our children seem distraught and unusually saddened since the loss of a family member, is this normal?

Children, much like adults can lose control of their emotions. Acute anger and guilt can build up as they might feel abandoned or deserted. They might feel as if the death was their fault. Professional help might be needed if there are prolonged periods of abnormal behavior. Accepting loss takes time, and the process of grief can take years to overcome. But, watching for signs of depression in children is very important, since it is harder for them to express their emotions.

Danger signs in grieving children:

  • Depression: Your child shows a loss of interest in daily activities, bonds between siblings shatter or their school grades drop dramatically.
  • Regression: Your child is acting younger and declining in behavior for an extended amount of time.
  • Isolation: Your child might be withdrawing from social activities and school beyond the first few weeks of grief.
  • Fear: They have problems sleeping, eating or develop a great fear of being alone.
  • Wishing for death: Your child might repeatedly wish to join the dead person or have a preoccupation with the deceased.
  • Extreme Anger: Their behavior becomes belligerent and uncharacteristic.
  • Violence: They show acts of violence against piers, adults or themselves.

Any and all of these symptoms are common and expected when children have to face the loss of a loved one – however, the severity and the length of time that it takes is what you have to look out for. Watch for prolonged periods of time that you child is not acting like themselves.

Offer support and encourage communication using verbal expressions of emotions. Talk with child and ask questions about their feelings. Children have a  hard time communicating especially when it has to do with death. The unknown is scary. You want to answer their questions in the most age appropriate way. Being honest, calm and real. If you cry, it’s ok. Teaching children that tears and sorrow are normal helps them to feel comfortable expressing their grief.

Ask for help

When in doubt, ask for help. Contact a family counselor, your church, or school counselor for help. It is hard to help someone deal with grief, if you too are going through the grief process. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it is encouraged and respected. Be a good role model for your child and accept that grief is a process that takes time and effort to get through.

 

Hold On To Your Memories: Memorializing Your Loved One

August 14th, 2011

Grief can sometimes feel like waves that come and go, rushing you with emotions. The heartache can leave us numb – but memorializing our loved ones can help us get through it. Honoring the life and joy that your loved one brought to you is a great way to start moving forward in your own life.

Everyone copes with grief differently. Grief is something that doesn’t just go away, it takes time, effort and acceptance. Finding a new hobby, or creating a memorial for your loved one can help exponentially during this emotional time. Hold on to memories by memorializing their life.

Ways to create a memorial

Memorial scrap quilt

Create a scrap quilt by turning your loved ones old clothing into a quilt. You can use any fabric or pattern to create a nostalgic quilt that will keep you warm with memories.

Write a song

Music has a calming effect on people. It is a way to express your emotions without having to say a word.
If you play an instrument or enjoy singing – create a song honoring your loved one and it record it on tape, CD or to your computer. It will be something you can hold close for years.

Plant a memorial garden

Planting a garden in honor of your loved one is a great way to memorialize their lives. Include their favorite flower, or their birth-month flower. Once you have created a memorial garden, it will be a place for you to visit and think of your loved one.

Create a scrapbook

Putting together a scrapbook might be difficult at first, but once the initial emotions have set in, you can create a book that will honor your loved one. Including pictures, favorite readings and poems, stories and fond memories.

Memorial Jewelry

Memorial jewelry, also known as mourning jewelry has been around since Victorian times. Mourners would wear jewelry containing ashes, strands of hair or soil from the graveside, over their heart bringing them peace of mind and comfort. It is a way to memorialize and honor your loved one while keeping them close to you always. You can also have diamonds made from your loved one’s carbon signature.

Personalizing their headstone

A personalized headstone is something that will be there for centuries, giving great honor to your loved and a special place for family and friends to visit.

Donate to a favorite charity

If your loved one was passionate about a certain cause or charity, you can make a donation in their honor. You might also consider creating your own charity in honor of your loved one.

Create a scholarship

Creating  a scholarship in your loved ones name is a great way to keep their memory alive. Others will benefit from your generosity and your loved ones name will live on.

Create a memory book

  • Start a book with your loved one’s picture, name and any special information about them. Write your favorite memories about their life and the time you shared. After you finish, put your book into a shipping box.
  • Write out a list of close friends and family members with their addresses. Include your name and address at the end of the list.
  • Include a pre-paid credit card for postage.
  • Include a note to your friends and family. Ask them to write their favorite memories of your loved one and any pictures they would like to share. Ask them to then send it on to the next person on the list.
  • Send it to the first person on the list.
  • Once you get your memory book you will have pages full of uplifting stories and joyful memories to hold close and honor your loved one.

Whatever way you choose to memorialize your loved one’s life will be special and be cherished forever. You can’t go wrong when speaking from your heart.

Special thank you to boobook48 and Rickydaivd for the beautiful pictures via Flickr

Cremation Diamonds and Memorial Jewelry

August 8th, 2011

Memorial jewelry has become an increasingly popular way to memorialize and remember loved ones who have passed away. For those who are in mourning, it is a wonderful way to begin the healing process. It helps to know that a small piece of your loved one will always be close, both in spirit and physical form.

Memorial jewelry, also known as mourning jewelry has been around since Victorian times. Mourners would wear jewelry containing ashes, strands of hair or soil from the graveside, over their heart bringing them peace of mind and comfort. It is a way to memorialize and honor your loved one while keeping them close to you always.

Create everlasting memories with Cremation Diamonds

Cremation diamonds take this unique memorial to the next level — a diamond is actually created with your loved one’s carbon signature.

  • Cremation diamonds are made with the cremains (ashes) of your loved one.
  • In the case of burial rather than cremation, diamonds can still be made from a lock of hair instead.
  • Cremation diamonds come in an array of different sizes, cuts, settings and brilliant colors.
  • They can be set just like regular gems: in rings, pendants, necklaces, earrings, and keepsakes.
  • If cremains are used: It takes 250g of cremated remains to create a brilliant cremation diamond.
  • Several dozen cremation diamonds can be made from the remains of a single person. Loving family members are able to share the special memorial, a treasure that will always be cherished.
  • Cremation diamonds are also popular for those who have lost a beloved pet, and want a way to remember and cherish the memories they shared.
  • The cost of a cremation diamond varies depending on the size, its average range is anywhere from $1,900 to $20,000.

Creating a Cremation Diamond

Cremation diamonds are laboratory-grown, synthetic diamonds. Although created by man, they are chemically identical to a natural diamond, and can take anywhere from 6-9 months to create.

The process of creating a Cremation diamond is long and tedious, but well worth it for the everlasting effect it holds.

  1. The first step is to separate the carbon molecules from the ashes.
  2. Then the carbon is turned into graphite. (This stage takes a few weeks of time)
  3. Next, a starter crystal is inserted into the center of the graphite.
  4. Then it is placed into a diamond press where heat is gradually increased to 2,500°.  800,00 pounds of pressure per square inch is slowly applied over a few weeks of time.
  5. A rough crystal (diamond) has been created.
  6. The last step is to create the shape and facets with special tools.

Each cremation diamond is unique and special. Holding deep sentiment and love inside of each sparkling facet. You will be reminded of your loved one and the inspiration they gave you every time you see the sparkle of your one-of-a-kind cremation diamond. A deeply cherished memorial that will live on in honor of your loved one.

 

The Thin Line Between Grief and Depression

July 18th, 2011

Grief and Depression go hand in hand when it comes to losing a loved one. Losing a loved one affects not only our mind, but our body as well. Our mind and body work together and react to the loss as a threat. Grief is just the minds way of coping with the threat.

Thin Line Between Grief & Depression People who are grieving often become withdrawn from the world and although grief is a natural and healthy reaction, it can be become very serious and even threatening to your physical health. It can be hard to tell the difference between the depression that comes along with grief and clinic depression, but the more you know about the signs and symptoms, the easier it will be for you to understand and take action when needed.

Speaking to someone who is grieving can be emotional, and often times things can feel awkward. It is very important to be honest and supportive to someone in grief; to offer a listening ear and a helping hand. Acting natural and calm while letting them know how much you care for them, will help ease the pain. Encouraging them to talk about and express their emotions and feelings will help heal the wounds of grief.

A few things to be avoided when talking with someone in grief

  • Don’t avoid them
  • Don’t pry. If they don’t want to talk, don’t force it.
  • Don’t ask for details about the person’s death.
  • Don’t offer advice with quick solutions.
  • Don’t try to cheer up or distract them.
  • Don’t minimize their loss. (Example: “You will move on”, “He is in a better place.”, “You can always re-marry”. Even though these things might be true, it is not something the grieving person wants to hear.)

Continue reading “The Thin Line Between Grief and Depression” »