October can be a difficult month for many parents who have lost a child. It is a month dedicated to raising awareness of pregnancy and infant loss, seeking to honor those who have faced this kind of grief. As this month comes to a close, here are some simple ways to comfort someone you know who is experiencing this loss!

Whether or not the loss of an infant has recently happened or occurred years ago, the deep emptiness and unimaginable void in their lives is always present. Grief can come in waves and often presents itself without warning. Someone experiencing pain in this way may not be able to voice their needs if asked. Check on your loved one and be willing to offer help as needs arise. Instead of asking how you can help, drop off a comforting meal, give a hug, do the laundry, or take accumulated trash to the nearest landfill. Caring for them in specific ways is a wonderful way to show up!

Many of us shy away from difficult conversations surrounding one's grief. We don't want to add to our loved one's pain or remind them of their loss at an untimely moment. Inviting your grieving friend to share their loss, however, can promote healing and show that you haven't forgotten what they've been through. Talking through their pain can be a way for them to process grief as it occurs. Don't be afraid to walk through conversations like this with someone who has lost their infant.

One of the greatest gifts you can give is being a willing listener. Listening opens the door for healing conversation. As mentioned in the quote above, you are building a deeper and stronger relationship with your loved one. That offers healing within itself.

While dealing with grief can be extremely stressful, having to think about a meal doesn't need to be. A well-timed meal is always a blessing even if a meal schedule has ended. Don't hesitate to offer this as an option, or surprise them, by sending a gift card to choose when a meal would be most needed.

Do you know someone who has experienced a miscarriage or lost an infant? We hope you take the time to remember and honor this loss by listening, being present for healing conversations, or taking a meal to comfort them during a time of need. If you are someone who has experienced this hardship firsthand, may you feel seen and encouraged. We also hope you continue to find ways to talk about your grief and experience healing in the process.