Finding the Right Words: A Free Guide to Supporting Someone Through Grief
When someone we care about is grieving, we often want to help but don’t know how. Should we say something? Stay quiet? Offer advice? Over the years, I’ve seen how much our words and actions can shape a person’s grief journey — for better or for worse. While there are certainly comments that feel flat or even insensitive, I’ve found that the hardest thing to hear is nothing at all. Silence can make someone who’s grieving feel even more alone.
Grief is a tricky subject, and most of us were never taught how to support someone who is grieving. Because conversations about death and loss often feel uncomfortable, we tend to avoid them. But avoiding grief doesn’t make it go away — it just leaves those in pain without the compassion they desperately need.
That’s why I created this free resource: Grief Etiquette 101. This guide is designed to help you feel more confident in showing up for someone experiencing loss. It draws from both my personal experience and the wisdom of others, highlighting what’s truly helpful versus what often isn’t.
What’s Inside the Free Grief Etiquette Guide
Inside this guide, you’ll find:
Quick do’s and don’ts for supporting a grieving friend, family member, or coworker
Practical examples of what to say when words feel hard to find
Phrases and behaviors to avoid, so you don’t unintentionally cause harm
Simple, compassionate ways to offer comfort that feel authentic and supportive
This isn’t about having the “perfect” response. It’s about learning how to show up with kindness, presence, and empathy — even when grief feels uncomfortable.
Who This Guide Is For
If you’ve ever struggled with what to say to someone grieving, this guide is for you. It’s especially helpful for:
Family members supporting a loved one through loss
Friends who want to show compassion but don’t know how
Coworkers and colleagues navigating grief in the workplace
No matter your relationship, knowing the basics of grief etiquette can help you avoid common mistakes and bring real comfort in the moments it matters most.
Why It Matters
Grief is universal, yet deeply personal. Everyone experiences loss differently, but the need for compassion and acknowledgment is the same. A kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or simply being present can make a lasting difference. By learning how to support someone grieving, you help create a culture where loss isn’t ignored — it’s met with care.
Download Your Free Grief Resource
I hope this free guide gives you both inspiration and practical tools as you learn how to support others through grief. Keep it as a reference whenever you’re unsure what to say or do — it’s meant to be something you can return to again and again.
Download the free Grief Etiquette Guide to start building confidence in how you show up for someone who is grieving.