Helping Grieving Friends at the Funeral Home
Every one of us is going to encounter death in some way or another over our years of life on earth. If you haven’t had a loved one pass on yourself, you are lucky. Even if that is the case, you probably know someone who has lost a loved one. In that event, what do you do? What do you say? How do you act? It can be hard to feel comfortable in any Mint Hill, NC funeral home if you haven’t been in them very often. And you really want to help your friend get through this difficult time. To do so, use some of these tips from funeral home professionals.
Tip 1: Don’t Avoid Your Friend
It might feel easier to simply avoid someone going through grief because you don’t know what to do or say, but that’s the last thing you want to do. When you arrive at the funeral home, seek them out and give them a hug. If you don’t know what to say, don’t say anything at all and just be there for them, a shoulder to cry on. A simple “I’m sorry,” is really all you need anyway.
Tip 2: Share Stories
If you’ve lost someone close to you as well, or if you have stories of your friend’s loved one, it can help to share those. It makes others feel better to know they aren’t alone in what they’re going through, and it makes them feel better to hear how their loved one touches your life.
Tip 3: Don’t Shy Away from Tears
Crying is a natural, important part of grief. When your friend is crying, just be there for them. Offer your shoulder, a hug, and your calming presence. Don’t try to cheer them up or help them stop crying. Just allow them to let it out.
Tip 4: Show Support Outside the Funeral Home
Once you leave the funeral home, that might be the end of the event for you. But your friend is still in mourning, which can be both physically and mentally taxing. Call them or stop by and offer to do a few things for them, like taking the grocery list and returning with the items they need or mowing the lawn. These small signs of support mean the world.
Tip 5: Take Note of Big Dates
Find out when your friend’s loved one’s birthday falls and make sure you reach out to them at that time to show your support. They will be thinking of their loss on that day and it can be a rough time for them.
If you need more help understanding grief and offering your support to someone going through it, contact Heritage Funeral & Cremation Services by calling (704) 846-3771 in Matthews, (704) 714-1540 4431 in Charlotte, or (704) 821-2960 in Indian Trail. You’re also welcome to stop by with your questions at any of our three locations: 3700 Forest Lawn Dr., Matthews, NC 28104, 16151 Lancaster Hwy, Charlotte, NC 28277, or Old Monroe Rd, Indian Trail, NC 28079.
Funeral Home & Cremation Mint Hill, NC Heritage Funeral & Cremation Service
Heritage Funeral & Cremation Services is here to answer questions about funeral and cremation services to help you make informed decisions about final services.