How To Support a Loved One During a Loss in Calgary

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most challenging experiences, and watching someone you care about go through this painful journey can leave you feeling helpless. While you may not be able to take away their pain, your presence, empathy, and support can make a significant difference. At Prairie Rose Cremation & Funeral Services, serving Airdrie, Calgary, Didsbury, and Red Deer, we understand the complexities of grief and the importance of supporting one another during these difficult times. In this blog, we’ll offer guidance on how to support a loved one during a loss, with sensitivity and compassion. 

1. Offer a Listening Ear 

Grief is a highly personal and unique experience for each individual, and one of the most important ways to support a grieving loved one is simply to listen. When someone is grieving, they may need to express a range of emotions, from sadness to anger or confusion. Offering a non-judgmental space for them to talk about their feelings can help them process their loss. 

Avoid the urge to offer advice or solutions unless they specifically ask for it. Sometimes, the most valuable thing you can do is to sit with them, listen, and let them know you’re there. Be patient and let them speak at their own pace, without rushing them or trying to fill the silence. 

Example: 
“I’m here for you whenever you need to talk. You don’t have to go through this alone.” 

2. Respect Their Grieving Process 

Grief doesn’t follow a specific timeline or pattern. Some people may want to talk about their loved one immediately, while others may need time before they are ready to open up. Respect their grieving process, even if it looks different from what you might expect. 

It’s also important to understand that there is no “right” way to grieve. Some may cry openly, while others may withdraw or express their emotions in ways that might not be immediately visible. Your role as a supporter is to be patient and understanding, acknowledging that their journey through grief is deeply personal. 

Example: 
“I understand everyone grieves differently, and I’ll be here for you in whatever way you need.” 

3. Offer Practical Support 

During times of grief, even simple daily tasks can feel overwhelming for the person who is mourning. Offering practical support can be a great way to help ease their burden and provide them with some relief. 

Practical support can range from cooking meals, running errands, helping with funeral arrangements, or offering to take care of household chores. These small acts of kindness show that you are there to lighten their load, allowing them to focus on their emotions without the added stress of daily responsibilities. 

Example: 
“Can I drop off a meal for you this week? Or if you need help with any errands, just let me know.” 

4. Be There for the Long Haul 

Grief doesn’t end after the funeral or memorial service. It’s often in the weeks and months that follow when your loved one may need your support the most. Many people offer support immediately after the loss, but over time, the attention and outreach may diminish as others return to their regular lives. 

Be mindful of checking in on your grieving loved one after the initial wave of support has subsided. Regular phone calls, visits, or simple messages can remind them that they are not alone and that you are there for them in the long term. 

Example: 
“I’ve been thinking about you. How are you holding up?” 

5. Help Them Remember and Honor Their Loved One 

One way to provide emotional support is to help your grieving loved one find ways to remember and honour the life of the person they’ve lost. This could involve creating a memory book, attending a remembrance event together, or even planting a tree or creating a small tribute in their honour. 

Encouraging healthy ways to keep their loved one’s memory alive can offer comfort during the grieving process. It helps them focus on the positive impact their loved one had on their life, while still allowing space for the pain they feel. 

Example: 
“Would you like to go for a walk and talk about some of your favourite memories? I’d love to hear more about them.” 

6. Be Mindful of Their Mental and Emotional Health 

Grief can sometimes take a toll on mental and emotional health. If you notice that your loved one is struggling to cope with their emotions, experiencing prolonged sadness, or withdrawing from daily activities, encourage them to seek professional help, such as counselling or support groups. 

Let them know that it’s okay to ask for help and that professional support is a valuable resource for navigating grief. You can offer to help them find local counsellors or support groups in Calgary, Airdrie, Didsbury, or Red Deer if they’re open to it. 

Example: 
“It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. If you ever want to talk to a counsellor, I can help you find someone who specializes in grief support.” 

Offer Compassionate Support

Supporting a loved one through loss is not always easy, but your care, empathy, and presence can make a meaningful difference in their healing process. By offering a listening ear, respecting their grief, providing practical help, and being there for the long haul, you show them that they don’t have to face this journey alone. At Prairie Rose Cremation & Funeral Services, we believe in the importance of compassionate support during times of loss, and we’re here to help families in Calgary, Airdrie, Didsbury, and Red Deer navigate their grief with care and dignity - please contact us if you have questions.