Knowing how to comfort someone who has a sick family member is very important.
These words might be the only thing that will give them strength during this time. For many, it can be a struggle to come up with the “right” words to say.
How To Comfort Someone Who Has A Sick Family Member
The intention is everything when it comes to showing sympathy. If you are able to express good intentions, that person is going to feel them.
As you are trying to comfort someone, it is always best to start from the heart.
Think about the words you would like to hear for comfort. While each person is going to require something different.
Being able to put yourself in their shoes will allow you to show more sympathy. Dealing with a sick family member is a hard time, but your words can make a difference.
Words To Say When Someone Is In The Hospital
Being in the hospital, no matter the reason, can be a scary time.
If you go visit someone who is in the hospital, it is a good idea to bring up positive memories for them to visualize.
Because the environment can be so clinical, this person is likely going to appreciate some reminders of being back at home.
A general wish that the person has a speedy recovery or feels better (depending on why they are there) is also appropriate.
Try to be mindful of the individual’s privacy while wishing them good health. You might not know exactly what is going on, but you do not need to in order to show them good intentions.
Comforting Words For A Terminally Ill Family Member
Someone with a terminal illness cannot necessarily be comforted or consoled in the same way as someone who is sick(Source).
This is a condition of permanence, and it is likely taking a lot for them to accept their condition. Do not draw more attention to it.
Instead of well wishes, think about how you can comfort this person without the mention of the past or future.
Simply being present in the moment with them and having a genuine conversation can suffice. Keep the topics lighthearted, and allow them to guide the direction of them.
Try to appreciate the beauty of life with this person. Talk about the things that you are grateful for. Tell this person how much you appreciate all of their positive qualities.
What To Write To Someone Who Has A Sick Family Member
When you cannot be present to comfort someone with a sick family member, writing a letter is going to be the next best thing.
Letters are meaningful when they are handwritten and genuine. Be as authentic as you can be.
Express that you are there for this person, even when you cannot be there physically. Ask them if there is anything you can do to make them feel better.
This is a kind gesture that allows them to reach out to you if they feel up to it.
Say that you will be thinking of them and their family. If you are religious, you can mention that you are praying for them.
This is simply another way of expressing your good intentions.
Encouraging Words For A Friend With A Sick Family Member
Those who have sick family members are undergoing a lot of stress and pressure.
In order to help them overcome this, it is important that you stay as positive as you can. Remind your friend of the good things in life.
The darkness often makes it seem like there will no longer be anything good in their life.
Treat them to their favorite meal or watch their favorite movie together. These little reminders are what helps the bad times pass quicker.
Console your friend by reminding them that nothing will stay the same forever.
Remind them of their strength and all they have already overcome in their lifetime so far. These small gestures can add up.
What To Say To A Coworker Who Has A Sick Family Member
Depending on your relationship with your coworkers, you might not know what to say.
It can be difficult to comfort someone you are not extremely close to, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. Every kind word matters during a time like this.
A simple expression that you are sorry they are going through this can be enough to brighten someone’s day.
By showing that you care about their family member, regardless of how close you are, you are expressing care and concern for their well-being.
Offer a helping hand if they need one, and provide them with a reminder that you are always there to listen.
Just because you weren’t close before doesn’t mean you can’t get close now. Hard times often bring people together in the best way.
Message For A Friend With A Sick Parent
Seeing your parents in a weakened state is devastating.
This is the person who cared for you when you needed to be cared for, and now, the roles are reversed.
It can be a very confusing and difficult time for someone to go through.
If you have a friend who is experiencing this, take care of them. They are likely going to be so focused on their parent that they might forget about self-care.
Remind them that they matter and do kind things for them in order to make their life easier.
From cooking dinner to running errands for them, this can be very helpful.
Tell them that they are doing the best they can because it might not feel that way to them in the moment.
How To Comfort Someone With Cancer
Cancer can be a difficult topic to approach because it can be so aggressive.
Many people lose family members to cancer each year, but this does not make it any less hard.
Be there in the moment for a person who is going through this.
A lot of people express their concern and care after cancer has either taken over or has gotten really bad, but being there as soon as possible is most helpful.
A person going through this with a family member is going to need support on all levels. Think about what you can do for them emotionally and physically.
Express that you are there for them, no matter what. Show them that you are willing to help them.
When the timing feels right, you can talk about the family member and express all of the great qualities that they have. You may also want to take a look at our article about be the reason someone smiles today. Or how to comfort someone who lost a pet.