Try to balance giving the person space and being there for them. If you have a picture of the deceased person share it with your grieving friend. It lets them know it s okay to talk about the person who has died and that they are still remembered. On the deceased person s first anniversary, have a Mass said for them and drop your friend a note. These are cherished and remembered by those who are grieving longer than the sympathy cards that flooded their mailbox immediately following their loved one s death.
People heal in stages.
Be respectful of the grieving person s pace and timing. Let your grieving friend know you are praying for them. Take your friend out to a movie. Even a casual conversation can help your friend know that you care and help alleviate feelings of isolation. After several months ask the bereaved person for assistance with something so that, if they are ready, they have the opportunity to get out of the house and out of themselves.