What is the right thing to say to someone who just lost their father?

Answer 1

* All you can really do is say that you are there for them, and to just be strong. * All you can really do is just be there for support and tell them that, even though it's hard now, the late parent would want him to be happy, and will always remain in their hearts. * Often you don't need to say anything. Just be there for them -- a hug can mean a lot! And be willing to listen as they grieve. Another thing you can do -- if you knew the person who died -- is to share stories about them.

Answer 2

Your father is in a Big home waiting for him to join you.

Answer

If you are not the surviving parent:

The first answer may scare the child and leave her open to all kinds of questions and worries. It's a weird concept for a child to understand or take comfort from.

Here are some more concrete ways to help that child. You could say, I know this is a difficult time for you. If you have any questions or need to talk to someone you can call me. Then make certain they have a number or/and email where you can be reached.

Remind the child they were loved very much and their father would have never left if it was his choice. Tell them gently that death is a part of life and it's why we treasure the people we love while they are with us. Let the child know how much their father enjoyed being their father. Allow the child to talk about their father and help to remind them of the good times they shared. Let the child know of good things their father said about them while he was alive and the things that made their father proud of them.

You could help to fill the void by taking the child out once in a while if you feel you can continue with those times together. It may cause further grief if you start and then end those get togethers. You could go to an occasional game or school program.

The best thing you can do for a child who has lost a parent is to try to fill in the void just a little bit and that will also help to take some of the pressure off the surviving parent. Offer your unconditional support and be there when your support is requested or needed.

Answer 3

• Your ex hasn't changed and you know him fairly well so just let him know how sorry you are to hear of his father's death, but do not get too close to him if you have a boyfriend because this could lead to much more than just a friendship and your ex grieving over his father. Just listen and let him talk; there is not much you can say at such a time.