Why “I’m Sorry for Your Loss” Isn’t Enough—and What to Say Instead

Grievers deserve more than a single sentence of sympathy.Photo by Aarón Blanco Tejedor on Unsplash

For those of us who have experienced a devastating loss—whether by death, divorce, diagnosis, or another life-altering transition—the silence from friends and family that follows can feel overwhelming.

But perhaps equally disorienting is what does get said. Especially this: “I’m sorry for your loss.”

You’ve heard it before. You’ve probably said it. I have too.

And I want to be clear: “I’m sorry for you...