Healthy Spaces
What not to say to a grieving person
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A bereaved person should be allowed to grieve because it is part of the healing process.
ST FILE PHOTO
- Here are some things that you should avoid saying to a person who is grieving:
- I know how you feel: This may be a well-meaning comment but the grieving person may not appreciate this as you can never know exactly how he feels.
- He's in a better place: He may not believe this. It is best to keep your beliefs to yourself unless asked.
- You should be strong for your family: A bereaved person should be allowed to grieve. It's a process that he or she goes through in order to heal.
- Don't dwell so much on it. It's time to move on with your life: This is easier said than done. You cannot rush the grieving process as there's no set timetable for grieving. Some people may take 18 months to heal, while others take a longer or shorter time.
Joyce Teo
- Source: Ms Candice Tan, senior medical social worker, Tan Tock Seng Hospital; American Hospice Foundation.
