17 Tips for Dating Someone Who’s Grieving

Grieving is immeasurably tough. There are no words to it. If you’re dating someone who happens to be in one of the several stages of grief, here’s exactly seventeen tips that can help you out:

1. Respect their feelings: It’s important to recognize that grief is a personal and unique experience. What one person finds helpful or comforting may not be the same for another. It’s important to be understanding and patient as your partner navigates their grief.
2. Be there for them: Offer your support and let them know you are there for them. It can be as simple as just being present and listening to them.
3. Give them space: Grief can be an overwhelming emotion, and it’s important to respect your partner’s need for space if they need it.
4. Avoid giving unsolicited advice: It’s natural to want to help and offer solutions, but it’s important to remember that grief is a process that cannot be rushed. Avoid giving unsolicited advice and instead offer support and a listening ear.
5. Be patient: Grief takes time, and it’s important to be patient and understanding as your partner works through their emotions.
6. Avoid comparisons: It’s natural to want to find common ground and connect with your partner, but it’s important to avoid making comparisons between their grief and your own experiences. Each person’s grief is unique and personal.
7. Be supportive: Offer your support and encouragement as your partner works through their grief. Let them know they are not alone and that you are there for them.
8. Offer practical help: Grief can be overwhelming and it can be helpful to offer practical assistance, such as running errands or helping with household chores.
9. Don’t try to fix things: Grief cannot be fixed or cured, and it’s important to recognize that. Instead, focus on being supportive and understanding as your partner navigates their emotions.
10. Don’t be afraid to talk about the person who died: It’s important to remember that the person who died is a significant part of your partner’s life and it’s okay to talk about them. It can be comforting for your partner to share memories and stories.
11. Be present: It’s important to be present and fully engaged when your partner is talking about their grief. This can be as simple as making eye contact and actively listening.
12. Be understanding of your partner’s need for solitude: Grief can be an isolating experience, and it’s important to understand and respect your partner’s need for solitude if they need it.
13. Don’t try to distract them from their grief: It’s natural to want to help your partner feel better, but it’s important to recognize that grief is a process that cannot be rushed. Avoid trying to distract your partner from their grief and instead offer support and understanding.
14. Respect their decisions: It’s important to respect your partner’s decisions about how they want to navigate their grief. This may include things like attending support groups or therapy, or taking time off work.
15. Don’t be afraid to ask for help: Grief can be overwhelming and it’s important to take care of yourself as well. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.
16. Don’t ignore your own feelings: It’s important to recognize and acknowledge your own feelings as you support your partner through their grief. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to help.
17. Seek out support: It can be helpful to seek out support for yourself as you navigate the grieving process with your partner. This may include seeking the support of friends, family, or a therapist.

Grief doesn’t need to be experienced alone. Communication, respect and support can go a long way in navigating a romantic relationship with your grieving partner.