Validating Feelings of Grief

Grief is one of the most complex and misunderstood emotions for people to experience. One way to help your loved one cope with their grief is to validate their feelings. Supporting a loved one who is grieving can take many forms. But rather than focusing just distracting your loved one or cheering them up, one way to support them is to help validate their feelings. Below, we will discuss some ways to employ validation methods to help support loved ones coping with grief. 

Why Is Validation Important?

Often, feelings of grief are disenfranchised or pushed aside, whether by those coping with it, or the people around them. Some people will also attempt to push their grief aside to help the loved ones around them. This is commonly seen in families after a member passes. 

Judgment Around Grief

There can be a lot of judgment around grief, often rooted in expectations and etiquette. Much of this can come from familial relationships. They may come from how one is supposed to act while grieving. But grief is different for everyone. We all experience it in unique ways. Your thoughts, feelings, and experiences while grieving are valid, regardless of what others think.

Support From Loved Ones

During the depths of your grief, being surrounded by loved ones can be vital to the healing process. This is a major part of why funeral services have ancient roots throughout human history. Friends and family can come together to mourn and support each other. Finding those who can provide a shoulder to cry on, or a hug when you need it is important in validating your grief. 

Professional Support and Finding Validation

Grief support groups, counseling, and therapy offer support to people who are struggling with their grief after a loss. They are also great ways to find emotional validation. A professional counselor or a grief support group can give you the space to work out your grief and provide guidance on processing your loss. 

The author of this post is not a professional therapist or counselor. For more personalized grief care, find a grief counselor that is right for you. For our Grief Resource Center, written by Dr. Bill Webster, click here. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.