10 simple phrases when visiting in the first hours after a death.

1. I’m sorry.

2. Nothing: (Sixty seconds of silence)

3. May I take care of that? (and take the tissue out of their hands and give them a fresh one and throw it away and wash your hands)

4. This is hard.

5. Yes, I remember that time.

6. I don’t know. . whether pets are in heaven . . . why this happened . . .when you will wake up.

7. I’m going to call for help.

8. I’m going to sit here. (or over there).

9. Here’s some coffee. (or coke. Or a milkshake.) and here’s some almonds. (or cheese, or protein).

10. Go ahead, I know you need to talk to them. I’ve fine.

11. I’ll be back tomorrow.

12. Can I go with you to talk to an expert on this?