#Collaborative post
Grief is one of the most personal and challenging experiences anyone can go through. It touches each person differently, depending on their relationship with the deceased and their emotional resilience. However, one thing is universal: the journey through grief is long, and healing takes time. For those who are grieving, it can feel like a journey through a storm, uncertain and painful. But for those who want to support a grieving loved one, there is much you can do to help them navigate this difficult period with kindness and understanding.
Understanding Grief
Before attempting to support a loved one, it’s essential to first understand what grief is and how it can manifest. Grief is a complex emotional reaction to loss. It can come in waves, sometimes intense, sometimes subtle. It often involves a mix of emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, confusion, and even relief. There is no “right” way to grieve, and no set timeline for when a person should “move on.” Everyone’s grief is unique.
One thing that is important to note is that grief doesn’t end after the funeral or after a few weeks. It can last months or even years, with triggers throughout life that can reignite the pain. Being patient with a grieving person is one of the most important aspects of supporting them during this time.
Providing Emotional Support
When your loved one is in the midst of grief, they may not always have the words to express what they are feeling, or they may not want to talk at all. That’s why offering emotional support is so important.
- Listen Actively: Sometimes, the most helpful thing you can do is simply listen. When they talk about their feelings, don’t interrupt or try to fix the situation. Just be there, offering a compassionate ear. Let them know that you are there for them, whether they want to speak or sit in silence.
- Acknowledge Their Pain: Avoid saying things like, “I know how you feel,” or “It’ll get better soon.” Instead, acknowledge their pain. Phrases like, “I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you,” can be incredibly comforting.
- Give Them Space: Sometimes, your loved one may need some time alone to process their emotions. Don’t take it personally if they withdraw. Let them know that you’re available when they’re ready to talk or spend time together.
- Encourage Self-Care: Grieving can take a toll on a person’s physical and emotional health. Gently encourage your loved one to look after themselves, whether it’s through eating well, resting, or even engaging in activities that bring them comfort, like taking a walk or reading.
- Help with Daily Tasks: Grief can be overwhelming, and sometimes the everyday tasks of life can feel impossible to manage. Offering practical help, such as cooking meals, cleaning, or running errands, can provide immense relief and allow them to focus on their emotional needs.
Physical Reminders of the Lost Loved One
For many people, finding a meaningful way to honour their loved one can be a key part of the grieving process. One way to do this is by creating a lasting physical reminder that keeps the memory alive. These keepsakes can provide comfort and a sense of closeness to the deceased.
One beautiful way to memorialise a loved one is through jewellery. Resin ashes ring have become a popular choice for many people who wish to carry a part of their loved one with them. These rings are made by encasing a small amount of ashes in resin, creating a unique and personal piece of jewellery. They can be customised with different colours or patterns, making them a deeply personal and meaningful keepsake.
Another option is a dog ashes necklace, a particularly poignant choice for pet owners who have lost their beloved canine companions. Just like the resin ashes ring, this necklace allows for a small portion of the dog’s ashes to be preserved inside the pendant, providing a constant reminder of the bond shared. For pet owners, the loss of a dog can be just as significant as the loss of any family member, and these types of memorials help carry that bond forward.
These keepsakes offer comfort to those who are grieving, and they also help to keep the memory of the deceased close to the heart. For those supporting a grieving loved one, suggesting a memorial piece like this can help them find peace and a sense of continuity after their loss.
Helping Them Cope with Special Days
Holidays, anniversaries, and birthdays can be particularly difficult for a grieving person. These dates often bring memories of happier times and can magnify the sense of loss. Be aware of these dates and be extra mindful of your loved one’s emotions.
- Offer Support on Significant Dates: For many, anniversaries of the death or birthdays are painful reminders of their loss. These days can trigger intense emotions, and your loved one may need extra support. Send a text, offer a hug, or spend the day with them if they need companionship.
- Create New Traditions: Sometimes, creating new traditions on these special days can be an effective way to manage grief. You might suggest spending the day in a way that honours the deceased, such as visiting their favourite place, lighting a candle in their memory, or sharing stories about them. Creating space for both grief and remembrance can be a healthy way to approach these difficult times.
Navigating Their Emotions with Patience
Grief has no set timeline. It can ebb and flow, and your loved one may go through periods of intense sorrow, followed by times when they seem to be coping better. It’s important to remember that healing takes time, and it’s normal for someone to have good days and bad days.
Patience is key. Don’t pressure them to “move on” or “get over it.” Instead, let them know that you’re there for the long haul, willing to offer support whenever they need it. Reassure them that healing is a journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your loved one is struggling significantly with their grief, it may be time to suggest seeking professional help. Grief can sometimes lead to depression or other mental health challenges, and a therapist or grief counsellor can provide the tools and support needed to work through these emotions.
Conclusion
Grieving is a deeply personal process that takes time, understanding, and patience. As someone supporting a loved one through their grief, your role is to provide empathy, comfort, and a listening ear. It’s also important to help them create meaningful ways to memorialise their lost loved one, such as through a resin ashes ring or a dog ashes necklace, offering them something tangible to hold on to during their journey of healing. Remember, healing takes time, and your ongoing support is a vital part of their recovery.