There is no perfect manual that can give you a step-by-step set of instructions for how to help a loved one grieve a loss. However, there are a few general rules that may help guide you along the way.
If you really want to support a friend or family member in grieving the loss of a loved one, stick to these dos and don’ts:
Do listen to him as openly as you can.
Do speak to him from your heart.
Do tell him how sorry you are.
Do remind him regularly that he’s not going crazy and that one day this pain will end.
Don’t try to take his grief away
Don’t try to comfort him with platitudes about grief.
Don’t try to hurry his grieving process along to suit your timetable.
Don’t try to persuade him to make changes before he’s ready to make them.
Don’t judge him and his ups and downs too harshly.
Don’t give up on him and your friendship.
