Unseen Allergies :A heart breaking journey of loss for my friend

Happy Single MOM

Here are some suggestions on how you can provide support during this difficult time:

1. Be present: Let your friend know that you're there for them. Offer your presence and willingness to listen without judgment. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is there to support them can be comforting.
2. Use compassionate language: Choose your words carefully and speak with empathy. Avoid clichés or saying things like "I know how you feel," as it may invalidate their unique experience. Instead, acknowledge their pain and express your sympathy.
3. Allow them to express their feelings: Grief is a complex and individual process. Encourage your friend to share their emotions, memories, and thoughts whenever they feel ready. Let them know that it's okay to cry, be angry, or feel a range of other emotions.
4. Listen actively: When your friend opens up, listen attentively and without interrupting. Offer words of validation, such as "I can only imagine how painful this is for you." Show that you care by maintaining eye contact, nodding, or providing gentle touches if appropriate.
5. Avoid judgment: Understand that everyone grieves differently, and your friend's journey may not align with your expectations or timeline. Avoid judging their reactions, decisions, or coping mechanisms. Offer support and reassurance instead.
6. Offer practical help: In times of grief, daily tasks can become overwhelming. Offer specific assistance, such as preparing meals, running errands, or taking care of practical matters, if appropriate and welcomed.
7. Remember the child: Acknowledge and honor the child's existence. Use their name when talking about them and allow your friend to share stories or memories if they feel comfortable doing so. Offer to help create a keepsake or memorial that will allow them to remember and cherish their child.
8. Be patient and persistent: Grief doesn't have a set timeline, and your friend may experience waves of intense emotions for a long time. Be patient with their healing process and continue offering your support even after the initial shock has subsided.
9. Encourage professional help: Grief counseling or therapy can be immensely helpful for individuals navigating the loss of a child. Suggesting professional support as an option may show your friend that you care about their well-being.
10. Check in regularly: After the initial shock and immediate aftermath, continue to check in on your friend regularly. They may need ongoing support, even when others have moved on. Let them know you're there for them and that you haven't forgotten their loss.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to comforting someone after the loss of a child. Each person's grief is unique, so adapt your approach based on their individual needs and preferences.

What are the 5 stages of loss?

The five stages – denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance – are often talked about as if they happen in order, moving from one stage to the other.

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Thank you maya isac for letting m use her song : when i get there