What to Say When Someone Dies

Coming up with the right words to say following the death of an individual is never a pleasant task. Torn between expressing sympathy and the fear of not saying that right thing fuels the uncomfortable feeling that arises when you want to speak.
If that is the case it’s best to just stay true, calm and collected.
Here are a few things to say when someone dies…

Be supportive
Most times, the solution is simple. If you’re at lost for words, keep it simple and tell them how sorry you are by just saying “I’m sorry;” showing you care – “I love you,” or simply express your genuine desire to support them by saying something like – “Just know I’m here for you.”

Talk about the good times you shared with the individual who passed
Sharing memories of someone who died can go a long way in providing comfort for someone mourning their loved one. When you talk about the good times and mention their name, it helps the healing process by allowing the bereaved to share a moment with their departed loved one as if they were together.

Try not to compare loses or claim you understand how they’re feeling
Avoid statements like “I understand…” even if you do or have gone through a similar situation in the past. When trying to provide condolence, know that it is about the bereaved and it is personal. So avoid making comparisons and don’t make it about your experience.

Avoid the temptation of starting a conversation with “Well, at least…”
In your bid to offer comfort, don’t get carried away and make statements like “Well, at least he lived a good life” or “At least, there are other children left.” Statements like these are insensitive and will defeat whatever good intentions you have. Note that the passing of a loved one is painful regardless of the conditions surrounding their death.

Steer clear of clichés and obvious religious condolences
Even if you are of the same faith, making statements like “Everything happens for a reason” or “He/she’s in a better place” can be counterproductive and unappreciated.