Just Brenda: How can I support my bereaved friend?
My friend lost his dad.
What you need to know:
- Them not wanting to talk about it doesn't mean you can't be there for them.
- First, make sure they know you’re a safe space for them, that they can talk to you.
- Even if you mention it once a month like a pay check.
Dear Brenda,
My friend's dad just passed away, and I have no idea if he’s okay. I don't know what to say and I don't think they actually want to talk about it. How can I be there for them?
Hey,
There's no such thing as the correct thing to say during grief. It's a personal thing. Different people feel things differently, and that's ok. Them not wanting to talk about it doesn't mean you can't be there for them. First, make sure they know you’re a safe space for them, that they can talk to you. Even if you mention it once a month like a pay check. But that should probably be the level of your intrusion, if they look like they don't want to talk about it. That could be a method of coping as well. Secondly, just give them time and space. The thing with grief is, unfortunately, it's always here with us. Good luck, and pole.
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