Coping with Grief

How to help family and friends manage the emotional and physical toll of loss.

Sadness and grief are a part of the human experience, but thankfully so are compassion and love. And when a loved one is in need of support during a difficult time, our desire to help kicks in. But where do you start? When a family is in the midst of loss or tragic circumstance, trying to make things better can feel overwhelming. It’s important to understand how grief affects our loved ones and know the proper methods to help families in a time of need.

Grief is different for everyone

Grief affects people in unique ways. While the stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance) are widely recognized, not everyone experiences them in the same order or intensity. Some may skip stages only to revisit them later. These stages are not a checklist but rather a guide to understanding emotions.

The most important thing is to allow individuals to feel whatever they need to feel. Support means giving them permission to experience their emotions without judgment. Never rush someone through their grief or assume they should feel better after a certain time. Every emotion during grief is valid.

Prioritize health during grief

Maintaining physical health is crucial during grief. This includes eating well, staying hydrated, taking prescribed medications, and getting enough rest. Grief can lead to neglecting self-care, which in turn increases stress and may cause illness. Helping your loved ones might be as simple as ensuring they maintain healthy habits.

Human interaction is also essential for mental health. Encourage socialization, whether in person or through phone calls and video chats. If the grieving person doesn’t initiate contact, take the first step. They may not have the energy or desire to reach out, so your efforts are vital.

Ways to help a grieving friend or family member

Start by simply being there. Your presence alone can be comforting, even in silence. Don’t try to fix the situation or act as a mental health professional. Just be there, ready to listen if they want to talk.

Offer practical help, such as running errands, buying groceries, or handling household chores. These everyday tasks can be overwhelming for someone in grief, and your assistance can lighten their load.

Remember to respect their space. Let them process their emotions in their own time, and don’t pressure them to talk about the loss if they’re not ready.

Supporting family during a crisis

If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, call 911 or go to the emergency room. Local community resources, including grief counseling and mental health services, are available. Helping a loved one may involve finding these resources and encouraging them to seek professional support when needed. Remind them that help is available.

Accepting change

Grief brings change, and life will inevitably be different. Holidays, family events, and daily routines will shift. It’s important to embrace these changes rather than resist them.

Let those who are grieving know you’ll be there for them throughout the process. Helping doesn’t end after the funeral. Regularly check in—whether it’s a week, a month, or six months later. Your ongoing presence can make a world of difference. Coping with grief should never be done alone, and your support can help them navigate the journey.

For more information on grief and mental health, visit CDC.gov.

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