You're my Best Friend

Losing a close friend can be just as devastating as losing a family member, but it’s often overlooked in terms of support because society tends to focus more on family loss. When someone loses a dear friend, the best way to support them is to acknowledge the depth and legitimacy of their grief, without minimizing it.

Treat their grief as real, unique, and personal, not as something lesser because the person wasn’t “family.” Friendships can be soul deep bonds, and sometimes, they know us in ways family never does.

Remember, that friends are not given the same bereavement leave or formal rituals, so the mourner may feel their pain is “less valid.” Remind them that their grief matters with a few suggestions.

• “I’m so sorry you’ve lost them. I know they meant so much to you.”

• “Your friendship was special, and I can only imagine how much this hurts.”

• Avoid phrases that downplay their pain, such as “At least they weren’t family” or “It’s not like losing a parent.”

• Let them share stories about their friend without rushing to “cheer them up.”

• Instead of advice, offer space for them to talk about memories, how they met, and what made the friendship unique.

• Remind them: “Your grief matters. Your loss matters.”

• A short “Thinking of you today” text can mean a lot.

• Plant flowers included in our “Against the Wind” gift box.

• Light a candle on special dates with our “Shine On’ memorial candle

Let them know you care.