Stay in touch with the bereaved
Keeping in close contact with the surviving family and the bereaved can provide the support needed to get through an emotionally challenging moment.
Friends and loved ones can provide support after the funeral or memorial service in a variety of ways.
Typically they include, but are not limited to:
- Emotional support: being an active listener and helping the surviving family or bereaved through
- Task support: depending on their circumstance, it may be helpful to provide everyday services such as taking care of children or the elderly, providing transportation or meals, or even doing laundry or cleaning
Helpful Tips
How to ask for help after losing a loved one
The grieving process is different for everyone, and you might not realize that you need emotional or task support until some time after the memorial service.
For personal tasks, ask trusted friends and family members for help. The easy way to ask for their support is by texting or calling.
When you reach out, let them know the specifics of the kind of help you need and any certain days or times you need assistance.
Be direct with what you or the bereaved may need.
For less personal tasks, contact a group of people you trust, like family, friends, or neighbors.
If you need assistance caring for a pet or clearing out your loved one’s home to put things in storage, asking a group of people for help gives you more options and increases your support network.
You can also look for coordinated tasks managed by local community groups, like meal preparation.
Civic organizations, church groups, nonprofits, and other groups can help coordinate many different kinds of tasks.
Pay people an hourly rate or a per-task rate. Regular weekly or monthly services might also be an option. Hire an individual or a company providing the needed service.
If you’re concerned about other people’s grief during this process and how to help, review the task, “Types of resources for helping others.”
