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(CNN) —
Current circumstances make losing a loved one even more complicated and isolating than usual. Those dealing with loss right now have the added burdens of not being able to say a proper goodbye at the hospital or to honor the deceased at an in-person memorial. We also can’t support those most directly affected by the loss in ways we might want to — with a hug or a visit. So what should we do or give to help them cope?
First: Don’t ask them what they need. “They don’t know what they need,” says David Kessler, grief specialist and author of “Finding Meaning.” “If you want to know what they need, you have to do one thing. You have to listen.” To find out what they need, Kessler suggests you acknowledge that what they’re going through is heartbreaking and ask them what their day-to-day challenges are.
Of course, a phone call or thoughtful note is enough, but if you’re feeling you want to do a little bit more, try one of these comforting gifts that we’ve gathered for the grieving people you know.
Forget-Me-Nots Greetings Card ($4.39; etsy.com)
Forget-Me-Nots Greetings Card
An intricately drawn picture of beautiful forget-me-nots mark the front of this card. Fill it with your own words or a favorite quote to show sympathy for their pain.
Gingko Sympathy Card ($5; etsy.com)
This simple card can show your sympathy to people going through tough times.
With Deepest Sympathy ($5; riflepaperco.com)
PHOTO:
Rifle Paper Co.
With Deepest Sympathy
This card has pretty flowers and a thoughtful, simple design that shows you understand how deep and indescribable their feelings are right now.
Every Plate (starting at $4.99 per serving; everyplate.com)
Kessler recommends dropping off groceries or getting your grieving friends a meal subscription service. “Many people are dealing with feeding their families, and someone in their family has died. Just the thought of a box that shows up with a few meals in it is such a lovely gift right now.” Every Plate is known for its easy six-steps-or-less preparations and is one of our favorite meal delivery services.
Tea + Sympathy Made by Mouth ($70.50; mouth.com)
Tea + Sympathy Made by Mouth
Warm them up from the inside out…
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