How Can You Help A Friend As They Go Through The Stages Of Grief?

By: Tom Gallagher
Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Grieving is a painful process that affects different people differently. Some people recover from the pain in a year while others still feel it after 3 or 4 years have passed. Friends and family can help a person go through this period. At Gallagher Funeral Home, we recommend the following tips to everyone who wants to help their friend through the grieving process:

1. Understand Different People React Differently

Everyone experiences grief in their lifetime and what works for you might not really work for them. For example, some people like to grieve in isolation while others prefer to grieve in the company of supportive friends and family. It’s a good idea to determine which option suits your friend before offering comfort.

2. Don’t Make Promises You Can’t Keep

Many people say things like “you can call me any time” or “if you need help, don’t hesitate to ask” at funerals. But when a grieving individual really needs assistance, friends or family members don’t have much time to spare on their hands. That’s why it’s important to only make promises you can keep during this time. If your friend calls, see if you can get out of your obligations for a short period of time and comfort them.

3. Listen

Sometimes grieving individuals are too focused on caring for others and don’t pay attention to their own pain. For example, a grieving husband might be forced to stay strong for his children because they need his support. Friends and other family members can provide a break from responsibilities, letting people focus on personal healing.

If you need help on funeral-related matters or want to know more about our services here at Gallagher Funeral Home, contact us or give us a call 318-640-1375 today.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.
Refresh
Audio

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

Does A Funeral Service Have To Be Held In A Funeral Home Or Church?

Traditionally, funeral services have been held in funeral homes or churches. However, modern funeral practices have evolved, allowing for more flexibility in choosing a location for honoring and re...

When I Bury Or Entomb Cremated Remains, Can I Keep A Separate Small Amount?

When faced with the complex and emotional issue of how to dispose of a loved one's body, many families discover that cremation is both a practical and affordable choice. What happens to the cremate...

Can I Supply My Own Container For Cremated Remains?

As the cost of traditional funerals skyrockets, more and more people are turning to cremation as a budget-friendly alternative that still honors their loved ones' final wishes. However, at Thomas G...

We Personalize So Much in Our Lives, Why Should Our Funeral Be Any Different?

Many aspects of our lives are tailored to reflect each person's distinct personality and interests. We all have our own sense of style, taste, and special occasions. We cook food based on our taste...

Making Sense Of Intense Emotions

Intense emotions are a natural part of the human experience, but they can be overwhelming and challenging to navigate. It's normal to feel a range of emotions, including joy, anger, sadness, and fe...

Ways To Personalize Your Loved One's Gravesite

The gravesite of a loved one can serve as a place for reflection, remembrance, and honoring their memory. When you personalize your loved one’s gravesite, the spot can become even more special and ...

Can I Rent A Casket For A Ceremony/Gathering Before Cremation?

At Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home, we know that planning a funeral or memorial service for a loved one can be emotionally challenging, and the decisions surrounding the disposition of the body ca...

Can I Still Have A Gathering/Visitation/Service If I Choose Cremation?

Although the concept of cremation may be novel to some, the practice has a long and storied history. Many cremation urns of different types have been discovered in ancient tombs. Those who don't wa...

Can I Scatter Cremated Remains On My Own Property?

Many people turn to Greenwich CT Funeral Homes, like Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home, for pre-planning or cremation services. When a family decides to cremate a loved one, one of their primary con...

Where Can I Scatter Cremated Remains?

One of the most common concerns expressed by families that cremate a loved one is what they will do with the ashes. Scattering cremated remains in a meaningful site is a common practice, although i...