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Alternatives to \\u201cI\\u2019m sorry for your loss.\\u201d

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This episode delves into that moment when you find out about a death. Most of us don\\u2019t know what to say or do, so we go turn to what we\\u2019ve heard others say in a similar situation, \\u201cI\\u2019m sorry for your loss.\\u201d While there\\u2019s nothing wrong with those words, especially when said with authenticity and full presence, it\\u2019s helpful to know how that phrase affects those who are grieving and what you can say instead. Whether it\\u2019s getting a phone call with the news, writing out a sympathy card, or learning about a loss during a casual conversation, everyone encounters the dilemma of what to say and how to communicate we care.

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Alternatives

• \\u201cI was so sad when I heard the news about your mom\\u2019s death.\\u201d

• With children and teens, they appreciate an honest: \\u201cThat totally sucks.\\u201d

• If you do go with \\u201cI\\u2019m sorry\\u201d expanding it to \\u201cI\\u2019m so sorry you have to go through this,\\u201d or \\u201cI\\u2019m so sorry this is happening.\\u201d can break up the monotony of \\u201cI\\u2019m sorry for your loss.\\u201d

If you\\u2019re talking with someone, try reflecting back what they\\u2019ve said, allowing them to say more:

• \\u201cYour dad just died last night.\\u201d

• \\u201cToday\\u2019s the anniversary of your sister\\u2019s death.\\u201d

When writing a sympathy card or email:

• Consider sharing a specific memory of the person who died: \\u201cI remember so clearly your mom\\u2019s smile, it made me feel so welcome.\\u201d

• \\u201cThere are no good words, just want you to know you are on my mind and in my heart.\\u201d can acknowledge that words don\\u2019t always measure up in times of grief.