WHAT TO SAY WHEN SENDING CONDOLENCES #Sympathy #condolences

Here are some things you should avoid saying/ writing to someone who has had a loved one pass.

Avoid using clichés/ common phrases, as it can often feel dismissive. Be genuine and heartfelt in your words:

1.”sorry for your loss"
An alternative that’s more personal & supportive =
*I'm deeply saddened to hear about [Name]. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. Or Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I'm here for you if you need anything”.
*”Thinking of you and wishing you strength and comfort."
*”My thoughts are with you and your family."

2."I know exactly how you feel."
Alternatively you could say: “I can't imagine what you're going through, but I'm here for you."

3.”They're in a better place now."
Alternative: "I hope you can find some peace in the memories you shared together."

4.”Everything happens for a reason."
Alternative: "This is incredibly difficult, and I'm so sorry you're going through this."

5.”At least they lived a long life."
Alternative: "Their life touched so many people, and they will be deeply missed."

6.”You need to be strong."
An alternative:
“It's okay to feel however you need to right now. I'm here to support you."

7.”Time heals all wounds."
Alternative: "Take all the time you need to grieve. Healing doesn't have a timeline."

8."At least they are no longer suffering." Alternative: "It's so hard to lose someone you love. I'm here for you."

General Tips:
*Speak less & Listen More.
*Offer Practical Help: Instead of generic offers, suggest specific ways you can assist, such as running errands or cooking meals.
*Be Present: Simply being there, whether physically or virtually, can be a great comfort.
*Respect Their Process: Everyone grieves differently. Allow them to express their emotions in their own way and time.

#condolences #condolenceadvice #condolenceetiquette #sympathyadvice #sympathynote #sympathy social skills#etiquetteschool #etiquettetips

[stephenphillips]

Sometimes it's so hard to have empathy when you haven't been through the same problems or lose, so coming up with the correct words are so hard and that's probably why people don't get in touch.