For the people who want to help and are afraid of saying the wrong thing. You do not need perfect words — you need to show up. This guide covers what supports a grieving person, what to avoid even when you mean well, and how to keep showing up long after the casseroles stop.

• Positive ways to support 16 answers
  • Should I wait until I know the “right” thing to say?
  • What if they don’t want to talk?
  • Is it my role to help fix their grief?
  • What matters more—what I say or how I show up?
  • and 12 more →
• What to avoid (even when you mean well) 5 answers
  • What kinds of actions or statements can unintentionally minimize grief?
  • What phrases create pressure around healing?
  • What behaviors can feel like fixing or explaining their pain away?
  • What should I avoid when they’re emotional?
  • and 1 more →
• Practical support (care in action) 11 answers
  • What’s more helpful than “let me know if you need anything”?
  • What is the most respectful way to provide food or supplies?
  • What kind of help matters most?
  • How can I help with ongoing or long-term tasks?
  • and 7 more →
• Understanding the griever’s experience 9 answers
  • Should I expect them to "get over" the loss?
  • Is there a right way for them to grieve?
  • What does their day-to-day experience actually look like?
  • Will talking about the person they lost make them sadder?
  • and 5 more →
• Honoring the person who died 9 answers
  • Will mentioning their loved one make them sadder or remind them of the loss?
  • Is it okay to include their loved one in everyday conversations?
  • Can I share my own memories of their loved one?
  • How can I respectfully help them remember their loved one?
  • and 5 more →
• Staying present 6 answers
  • Do I need to know the "right" thing to say before I reach out?
  • How can I support them when there are no words?
  • Should I try to solve their pain or make them feel better?
  • How do I know whether to talk or just listen?
  • and 2 more →

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Grief education is not a substitute for professional care. If you are struggling to stay safe, please contact your local emergency number or, in the US, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.