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Grief is hard any time of year, but the holidays can feel particularly brutal. Grieving people would love your help & support this holiday season. Here are some ways you might help. And if you’d like some help educating friends & family on the best ways to support you, this list is for you too:⁣

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1️⃣ Understand that it’s OK for a person to be sad – even during the holidays: Telling someone they shouldn’t be sad only tells them that they can’t be honest with you about how they’re feeling.⁣

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2️⃣ Check your foundation: When you begin with the understanding that nothing you do can make this season “good” for them, you’re off to a solid start.⁣

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3️⃣ Let the grieving person lead: Don’t make assumptions about how they’re handling the holidays. If you have a concern, ask them how they feel about it, then follow their lead.⁣

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4️⃣ Don’t criticize how they’re handling the holidays: The holidays are already difficult without people judging how they’re doing or telling them they aren’t being festive enough.⁣

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5️⃣ Ask them what might feel good this season: They may not have an answer,⁣ but being asked is always appreciated. Remember to ASK FIRST before offering your own ideas.⁣

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6️⃣ Watch your language: Reminding grieving people to be grateful isn’t helpful. Instead, meet your grieving person exactly where they are.Mirror their reality back to them.⁣

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7️⃣ Share a memory: Don’t be afraid to share memories about their person. Use their name in conversation.⁣

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8️⃣ Invite them out to things, but don’t force it: Include grieving people in your holiday plans and invite them out to low-key things too. Accept their answer if they say no.⁣

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9️⃣ Remember that people with terminally ill loved ones are also grieving: Check in, support them, and include them in your plans.⁣

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🔟 Raise a toast to those who are not present and say their names: Acknowledging who is missing really helps.⁣

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Remember: There is no right or wrong way to do the holiday season. It’s important to reach out & connect.⁣ It’s OK to be feel awkward. You don’t need to be perfect, just present.⁣

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Looking for more ways to support someone? Visit refugeingrief.com or check out our other #RIGGriefSupportTips!