When you are in a relationship, you will inevitably experience both good and bad times together. And, sometimes, the bad times can be horrible, like when someone experiences a loss. Seeing your significant other in pain after losing someone is heartbreaking. Today, we’ll share some tips for how to be there for your partner when someone they are close to passes away.
Let Your Partner Know Their Emotions Are Valid
Let your partner know that it is okay not to be okay and that their emotions are valid. Remind them that they are allowed to take time to grieve and don’t need to act like everything is fine.
Be Okay With Silence
Sometimes there is nothing to say, and that is normal. You need to be okay with silence and not feel like you have to make conversation constantly. Just being there will (hopefully) mean a lot to your partner.
Be a Listener
In this challenging time, you will need to be the listener. Sometimes they won’t want to discuss what happened, but if they do, let them know they can talk about the situation as much as they need to.
Avoid Statements That Can Be Hurtful
Avoid saying things like, “They’re in a better place” or “Now they are without pain.” Because in the end, the person who is alive is suffering a great deal over the situation, so it’s a bit backwards to say the deceased is in a better place, (even if they really are). So, saying this is not always comforting to someone who has recently experienced a loss. Instead, “I’m here if you need anything at all“ or “I’m really sorry you have to go through this – I know how hard this is” can be more helpful.
Help With Your Partner’s Responsibilities
Offer your help and let your partner know you can take on their responsibilities, whether running errands, helping with family arrangements, or taking on some of their daily tasks. Let them know that you are there to make their life easier and that they don’t have to worry about anything other than grieving, and healing.