TALKING ABOUT LOSS

What do you say to someone who has suffered a loss? Grief expert Dr John Wilson shares his tips.

DON’T SAY…

‘I understand what you have gone through…’ and then talk about your own losses. Everyone’s grief is unique.

‘They had a good innings…’ There’s no lifespan that makes death easy to accept. The relative might come to the same conclusion, but it’s not for you to say.

‘Time heals.’ Maybe, but never completely and it doesn’t feel that way when grief is raw.

DO SAY…

‘I don’t know what I could say that would help.’

‘That’s so tragic – I really feel for you.’

Nothing. Often actions speak louder than words, so be there to listen, even on a run together.