Loss is something most—if not all—people will experience in their lives, and it doesn’t come with a simple set of guaranteed solutions. What do we do when someone important to us has experienced a profound loss? How do we begin to help them move forward when they have lost someone important?

One thoughtful answer is to try our best to be present, to be intentional in our speech, and to consider that this may not be easy for them. Here are five ways to talk with someone experiencing loss:

• Consider their pain. Understand that the more personal a loss is for someone, the more painful it will likely be for them. Keep in mind that loss is different for everyone and that how they grieve may look different from how you would grieve. So, it’s important to let the person who is grieving do so in their own way.
• Use sensitive and mindful language. Be considerate in your language. Avoid saying things like, ‘at least they lived a long life’ or ‘it was their time to go.’ While it may be said with the good intention of helping a grieving person focus on something else, this may not be helpful for them to hear.
• Offer compassion. Sometimes just being present with the grieving person and saying nothing can be most helpful. Showing support doesn’t always have to be with words, but if you choose to express your love and compassion, try saying something like this: ‘I am so sorry for your loss’, ‘I wish I had the right words’ or ‘please know I care.’
• Remember the memories. If your friend has experienced a family death, talk to them about their loved one. Ask them to share what they loved and appreciated about that person, share a favorite story with them, or look back at old pictures with them. Don’t be afraid to talk about a lost loved one with someone who is grieving.
• Start new traditions. In the case of a family death, consider spending a day celebrating the life of the departed loved one and whatever brought joy to them. Try to think of new ways to celebrate that person as a way to honor their memory.

Coping with loss is difficult, but remember to take it one day at a time. If dealing with loss becomes overwhelming, support is available. No one should have to go through loss alone. If you are struggling with your mental health after suffering a recent loss, Centerstone can help. Call 1-877-HOPE123 (1-877-467-3123) to get connected with care today.