Latest / Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor / AAC - Challenges & Change - Grief & Loss - Supporting Others Who Are Grieving - Q4 (Alessandra)

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AAC - Challenges & Change - Grief & Loss - Supporting Others Who Are Grieving - Q4 (Alessandra) · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: Grief can affect people in very different ways, and there is no timeline or right way to respond.
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  SPEAKER_00: So when someone is grieving, everyday tasks can feel overwhelming.
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  SPEAKER_00: So practical help can make a real difference.
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  SPEAKER_00: Offering support is often about being present and easing small pressures where you can.
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  SPEAKER_00: And if you are unsure what to do or feel worried about saying the wrong thing, just pause and take a slow breath in through your nose and then out through your mouth.
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  SPEAKER_00: And just gently remind yourself that you don't need to fix the grief, and being calm, steady and available is already helpful.
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  SPEAKER_00: And it can help to focus on doing rather than just saying something.
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  SPEAKER_00: So grief can make decision making and energy levels drop.
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  SPEAKER_00: So offering specific practical help is often easier to accept than general offers.
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  SPEAKER_00: So for example, suggesting you drop off a meal, help with childcare, or go for a short walk together, let the person lead where possible and listen without trying to change how they feel.
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  SPEAKER_00: If they want to talk, give them that space.
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  SPEAKER_00: If they don't, then sitting in quiet company can still feel supportive.
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  SPEAKER_00: Also, you can think about small manageable ways to support day-to-day life.
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  SPEAKER_00: So you might help with shopping, cooking, school runs, or admin tasks.
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  SPEAKER_00: Keep messages simple and consistent like checking in every few days and remember important dates such as anniversaries, as these can be especially hard.
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  SPEAKER_00: And it can also help to gently encourage routines like eating regularly, getting some fresh air or resting.
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  SPEAKER_00: And if you are close to the person, you can offer to help them reach out to others so they don't have to carry things along.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now if a person seems stuck in intense distress, is withdrawn completely or is struggling to cope day to day over a longer period, it may be helpful to encourage extra support.
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  SPEAKER_00: This could be through a GP, bereavement service, or a therapist, and you can also offer to help them make that appointment or go with them if they feel a bit unsure about it.
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  SPEAKER_00: And you can refer back to the app's resources for further support around grief and loss and supporting others who are grieving.
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  SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or crisis helpline.