Supporting a Grieving Coworker

When a coworker loses someone close to them, it's natural for you to want to lend your support. However, you may struggle to understand their experience and not know what to say or how to support them.

How to support your coworkers

Use the tips below to help a grieving coworker.

Acknowledge their loss. If your coworker is mourning the death of someone important in their life, you should acknowledge their situation appropriately with a personalized note or verbal statement. Lack of acknowledgment or too much focus can create uncomfortable feelings for your coworker. Avoid religious statements or simple reassurances, such as "they are in a better place" or "everything will be alright."

Create a safe space for them. When a traumatic or violent death happens, people can struggle to interact with others and may seek isolation or silence. It is appropriate to connect and talk with others about their loss when they're ready. Talk to them in the same sensitive way you would about losing someone in your life. You don't need to have the right words or answers for their loss. You can't take away their grief, but you can create a supportive space for them to feel heard.

Follow appropriate protocol when contacting them. If your team wishes to contact a coworker or their family during this time, follow the correct workplace protocol. A Human Resources representative, your supervisor, or an approved representative will typically coordinate a formal response. It is important to respect the privacy of your coworker and their family.

Be there for your them as they cope. Check on your coworker if you notice sudden behavior changes. If they need support beyond what you can provide, get help from your supervisor or gently mention that EAP is a resource they can use. If your coworker's loss is triggering persistent grief reactions for you, request a counseling appointment or reach out to us at 877-313-4455.

For HR & managers

If need help addressing a loss or traumatic event with your team, request an HR & manager consultation.