When someone you know is grieving or has experienced a loss, sometimes finding the right way to express condolences is not always easy. However, whether it’s by offering a few kind words or by volunteering your help, there are lots of ways for expressing condolences; showing your support and helping them out if they need it.

When Should You Express Condolences and Offer Your Help?

When death and the loss of loved ones occur, you can never quite know when the bereaved will need your help most. Some people appreciate support right away. For others, a little time is helpful  The timeline for offering your condolences and support largely depends on your relationship with the bereaved. Pay close attention to their emotional cues and act accordingly—being present and empathetic is best. The last thing you want is to make the situation about you.

What Kind of Help Will They Need?

Once you’ve offered your help and condolences, let the bereaved tell you how you can best be of service. Ask them if there is a specific thing you can do – vague offers of help are often not useful when people are overwhelmed.  Propose to do something that you know is needed so their decision is simple.

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One of the best ways you can relieve at least some of the stress on loved ones upon your death is to make sure all of your end-of-life plans including  funeral pre planning, end of life medical decisions and legal plans such as estate planning, power of attorney and final will and testament are in order.

To find out more about how the Final Roadmap web-based toolkit can help you put your plans in place, Click Here