Bereaved person 'needs empathy not sympathy'

Dubai: One thing that is common amongst people across borders, no matter how different they are, is the difficulty of dealing with death and grief.

"Grief is one of the most common life events people go through. Still, it's the least recognised," says Elzain Omara, a consultant psychiatrist at Al Noor Hospital in Abu Dhabi.

Like every other social and psychological event, grief has its etiquette.

One of the rules of dealing with a person grieving is just to be there for them.

"Grief differs according to gender, age and the relationship with the person lost and in all cases every grieving person needs support," he says.

They should be allowed to cry; it's helpful to let them express themselves, talk about their feelings and just listen to them without giving advice.

"Crying is an expression of unexpressed emotions. It's a normal physical symptom of psychological pain and it's important to realise that a person in grief needs constant assurance and empathy, not sympathy," he says.

Also, there shouldn't be a fear of talking about the person lost. It is wrong to think that the topic shouldn't be discussed. Condolences should be paid and the lost person's name should be said.

"Talking about the person who died gives the mourner more closure and the ability to move on more quickly," he says.

Also, a grieving person should be given time and space, and they should be left alone when they need it.

"A person grieving should be given space and time. Being pushy won't help them. It is important to know that that person is trying to paddle their way through a deep dark ocean," he says.

"It is good to keep them company at all times, being around and helping them with different chores is a good way to show support," he adds.