When it comes to soothing others, not everyone can be a board-certified therapist. And, to be honest, many board-certified therapists will admit that they aren’t always correct. So, how do you know what to say when someone you know has a terrible day — or, in this case, a loss or tragedy?

You may feel compelled to send your best wishes to someone whose entire family has been affected by a tragedy or loss. This is especially true if you’re attempting to come up with anything to say while a family member is ill. It’s understandable that extending your prayers to a full family may seem burdensome, but your gesture will be well received with the correct wordings.

1. “Over the last few weeks, I’ve been thinking a lot about you and your family. Please let me know how I can help you all.”

It’s simple to swap the term “thinking” for “praying” when dancing around the subject of “praying” for someone.

After all, praying shouldn’t be any more difficult than thinking about other people’s well-being. You might also want to lend a helping hand to your friend’s or loved one’s family, which will be greatly appreciated.

2. “Every day, I set aside some time to send positive energy to you and your family. I’m hoping you’ve been receiving them. If not, I’ll give it my all.”

This message is sending “positive vibes,” and the overall tone is lighter than some others.

However, you are the greatest judge of your relationship with your friend or loved one, therefore this gesture may be more appreciated than something more serious.

3. “How are you and your family doing along these days?” I’ve been thinking about you guys.”

If they’re struggling with a loss or the death anniversary of a loved one, it’s fair to say that their family has been on your mind.

Of course, simply asking how they’re doing and sincerely caring about their response might go a long way.

4. “I care about you, and I’ve been thinking about how I can assist you with this. I’m available to speak with you at any time.”

Extending help is generally the most effective method to demonstrate that you care about someone. It’s also a good idea to let your loved one know that you’re just there to talk. It’s a “low-pressure” method to check in and open the door, especially if you don’t speak with this person frequently.

5. “I hope my expressing this does not upset you, but I worry about you and your family every day. I sincerely hope you’re all doing well.”

Telling someone, or rather, a group of people, that you’re thinking of them and hoping they’re doing well, pretty much covers everything.

By expressing you don’t want to upset them, you’re also allowing them to be honest with you.

6. “Please inform the rest of your family that I am sending my best wishes. You folks are incredible, and you’ll pull through.”

You should never feel wrong about sending some love and reminding others of their strength. This type of reminder is also beneficial at times when we are at our weakest.

7. “You know how much you mean to me, right? I’m sorry to see you in pain. I’m hoping you’ll be able to find some peace soon.”

It’s crucial to express your wish for your loved one to find peace. After all, they may believe that peace is the furthest thing from their minds. Hearing that someone is really thinking about them in this way is equivalent to praying without having to say it.

8. “Since you’ve been through this, I’ve been having trouble focusing on other things. You’re not alone.”

People may feel alone, especially when they are going through a difficult moment. This is frequently the worst feeling because solitude only empowers a specific person (and a unique set of circumstances).

Even though they should have known it previously, letting your loved ones know that they are not alone will certainly make them feel a lot better. Some folks require prompting.

9. “Please let me know what I can do to help you with this circumstance. I mean it when I say I’ll do anything.”

It’s crucial to let your loved one know that you’d go to any length for them (if you actually mean it). Don’t take your phrasing too seriously, but don’t overthink it either. Just say what seems appropriate.

10. “I love you, and you are constantly on my mind — especially lately.”

Focusing on your love for this person can help you cover a lot of areas. If you don’t speak to him or her too much, you’re reminding him or her that you’re in good standing and that they should feel free to approach you.

You never know how important it is for someone to hear something.

You never know how much someone needs to hear something, as mysterious as it may sound. Our words (and actions) carry a great deal of weight, often more than we think. We can surely try, even if we can’t always get it perfectly. Telling someone you’re praying for them should never make you feel embarrassed, humiliated, or strange.