What does the OT say to someone after they lost a loved one?

depends if i like the person or not

I'm so sorry....



It is awkward, but it's life, my friend. Small words and thoughts like that let people know that you care.

So very sorry (and a hug). Avoid things like, I know, I understand, they are in a better place.

Another thing you shouldn't do:

After my son's death there were many people at our home. The wife of one of my husband's best friends told me they wouldn't be able to attend my son's funeral because they had football tickets and it was bad timing. On the day of the funeral my husband voiced confusion that the couple had not attended the funeral. I have never told him what the wife said.

did you check your other pants ?

I have said "hey, how are you doing?" on more than one occasion as a natural greeting. Only other thing I can think of would be "man, that sucks"

"I'm sorry. He/she impacted my life in this/that way and that's why I'll miss him.

What can I do for you? Anything, really..."

If you have to begin with a disclaimer like "I'm not sure if this is the right time" you are about to day something wrong.

I lost my wife two months ago and I so sensitive to every little thing people do and say. But the lady who is doing my and my kids laundry twice a week could kick me in the nuts and I would still love her.

Just say "sorry for your loss, if you need anything let me know". Because there's never really the right words for that kind of situation. Just try to be a good dude and be there for your friend if he/she needs to talk about it.

Whatever you do don't throw out the "everything happens for a reason" shite.

"I'm there for you."

I usually say "I'm sorry you're having to go through this". I'll usually tell them how much their loved one meant to me or if I'm just supporting a friend who has lost someone….how much the friend means to me. I'll usually offer to help out in any way they might need.
Having lost a brother I know there is little that I'll say that will make anything better.

I suck in these settings, so I usually clam up and mumble something that I don't even understand... I actually do pretty well when one of my loved ones dies though. I dominate small talk, and am actually a pretty likable guy during these times. Pretty weird.