25/06/2026
When someone has experienced a significant loss, what’s the first thing most of us ask?
“How are you?”
It’s a kind question.
But it’s also one of the hardest to answer.
How am I… compared to yesterday?
Compared to before they died?
Compared to what people expect?
The truth is, many grieving people don’t even know how they are.
Some days they feel hopeful.
Some days they’re overwhelmed.
Some days they laugh and then feel guilty for laughing.
Some days they feel absolutely nothing at all.
Instead of asking, “How are you?” perhaps a better question is:
“What’s been the hardest part this week?”
Or simply:
“I’m here if you’d like to talk.”
You don’t need the perfect words.
Your presence matters far more than your wording.
💛 I’d love to hear your thoughts. What’s something someone said or did after a loss that genuinely helped you?