When someone is grieving it can be hard to know how to help. We’ve put together a list of thoughtful and useful gifts and gestures that will help your friend by taking a little bit of pressure off of them and allow them the space and time they need for their healing process.
Meal Schedule – When someone is going through a difficult time in their life, making and preparing food can be one of the last things on their minds. By setting up a meal schedule with friends, family and neighbors, you can help take the thought and guesswork out of planning and making their meals. There are several free and easy to use sites out there like Meal Train or Take Them a Meal to get you started! Be sure to include any dietary restrictions when setting this up so others know.
House Cleaner – Ask your friend if you could send them a house cleaner so they won’t have to worry about the cleaning. They may not have the energy to worry about the upkeep but having a clean and organized environment can make someone feel better right away.
Grief Coach – A grief coach can be a great way to start talking about feelings of grief and begin to cope. There are online options available or you could always research someone in their area if an in-person session would be better for them.
Dog Walker/Pet Sitter – Maybe walking the dog or caring for pets is too much to worry about for the time being. You can find pet sitters and dog walkers on Rover to take that off of their plate. Maybe just for a day so they can rest or even for a week so they won’t have to think about that for a little while.
Groceries – Drop off the staples or have them delivered with services like instacart or even their local grocery store may offer delivery. Making sure they have things like bread, coffee, milk, eggs, toilet paper or other essentials can take a burden off them so they won’t have to go out for things they need.
Yoga Session or Exercise Gift Card – Some people can really decompress and feel better when they stay on top of their exercise routine. Class Pass is a great way to provide your loved one with a way to book the exercise of their choice at a location that works for them.
Memorial Tree – If the other items on this list are too personal, or aren’t fitting, you could always have a memorial tree planted in honor of their loved one who passed. Sites like A Living Tribute or Seeds of Life have several options available.
However you choose to help your friend or loved one, the old sentiment, “It’s the thought that counts.” really rings true. They’ll find comfort just knowing you’re thinking of them and trying to help them through a difficult time.
