Grief can feel incredibly isolating. But over time, I began to realize that my own pain gave me a rare gift: empathy. And with it, the power to help others navigate their own grief journeys.
Here are 5 simple but meaningful ways I’ve supported others—even while carrying my own loss:
1. Sharing My Story Openly
When I began to talk honestly about my grief, others started opening up too. Whether it was a social post, a conversation, or just admitting I wasn’t okay, it gave people permission to speak their truth.
Grief is quieter when we share it together.
2. Checking In On Others
I started reaching out more often. A quick text: “Thinking of you today.” A message on a hard anniversary. Just letting someone know they weren’t alone made a difference—and reminded me that connection is healing for both sides.
3. Creating Small Memorial Gestures
I’ve helped friends honor their loved ones with little acts of remembrance: lighting a candle, writing their name on a beach rock, planting a flower. These small gestures brought comfort and created a space for shared grief.
4. Listening Without Fixing
Because I know how painful it is when someone tries to “solve” your grief, I’ve learned the power of simply listening. No advice. No silver linings. Just being there, holding space.
It turns out, presence is one of the greatest gifts we can offer.
5. Encouraging Them to Remember
When others talk about their loved ones, I ask questions. I say their name. I tell them, “It’s okay to talk about them. I want to hear.”
Because one of the most healing things we can do for someone grieving is to help them keep memory alive.
Helping others doesn’t mean your own healing is complete. It just means your heart has grown wider—strong enough to carry both your own grief and someone else’s hand.
Sometimes, in comforting someone else, we comfort the quietest parts of ourselves too.
