September 10, 2023
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 48,183 Americans ended their lives by suicide in 2021, a figure that has increased by about 35 percent since 2000. . . . Here are seven ways to help those grieving a suicide death. . . .
April 18, 2015
By Danielle Hance Whether we”re battling chronic illness, mourning a loved one, going through separation, or any number of other painful periods, we all need support. Unfortunately, our efforts to bring comfort often miss the mark. Like the advice offered by Job”s friends, our good intentions can sometimes do more harm then good. Not sure how to support a friend in distress? Here are some bad and better approaches. BAD: “Are you feeling better?” This question practically demands an affirmative response. People expect those who are sick to get well, not worse. This may lead sufferers to feel they are
April 17, 2015
By Susan Lawrence “Let me know if I can do anything to help.” We commonly extend the offer with a genuine desire to help. However, many times, people don”t know what they need, or they”re hesitant to ask. Through many difficult deaths and trials among our church family, I”ve learned a few things that help. Reach out to others even when they”re not reaching out. “¢ Simply be present. You don”t need to have the perfect words. You don”t need to have answers to every question. Sit with someone. Hold a hand. Give a hug through the sobs. “¢ Be
April 16, 2015
By Jennifer Johnson Real heroes don”t wear capes. They can”t fly or leap tall buildings or breathe underwater. Real heroes wear khakis and polo shirts. The younger ones wear jeans and untucked Diesel button-downs with pockets on both pecs. On good days they wear waders in a baptistery. Heroes answer the phone at midnight and change back into the jeans before driving across town to sit with a grieving family. Heroes still get up early the next morning to have breakfast with their kids. Heroes are strong enough to unite opinionated volunteers and gentle enough to dedicate new babies. Heroes
May 23, 2014
By M. Ben Williams A funeral is a hard time. Family and friends are dealing with shock and sadness that accompany grief. Their loved ones are also dealing with confusion. What do I do? We have all heard the phrase, “If there is anything I can do, let me know.” In fact, most of us have said those words. Such offers typically are not helpful. The sentiment may be, but the statement is a step short of actually doing something. When dealing with the throes of grief, we do not always know what we need. It takes an enormous amount
August 7, 2005
A Christian-oriented model for helping people in crisis, built around the “Five R’s”: relate, release, recognize, redirect, and reflect. Practical guidance for supporting others through shock, loss, confusion, and change.
August 7, 2005
Miscarriage is a real loss, and friends can help by showing up with compassion. Learn what to say (and what to avoid), how to offer practical care, and how to support long-term grieving.
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