Supporting Bereaved Men: Encouraging Healthy Expression of Grief
Grief affects everyone differently, but men often face unique challenges when navigating bereavement.
Social expectations and outdated ideas about masculinity can discourage men from openly expressing their emotions, leading to isolation and unprocessed grief.
The recent Netflix series Adolescence has sparked important conversations about this – highlighting how damaging it can be when boys and men are taught to bottle up their feelings.
They may feel pressure to appear in control or worry about burdening others. As a result, their grief can manifest through withdrawal, irritability or overworking rather than tears or verbal expression.
At GriefLine, we believe it’s vital to create safe emotional spaces for men to express their sorrow in healthy ways.
If you’re worried about a man who has recently lost someone, it’s normal to feel unsure of how to help. But grief left unspoken can build into deeper pain.
Here’s how you can support him in a healthy way.
1. Check in gently
Start small. A simple ‘How are you really doing?’ can open the door. Let him know it’s okay to talk about his loss and that you’re there – without forcing a conversation.
2. Listen without fixing
Sometimes the best support is your presence. You don’t need to have all the answers – just listening can make a world of difference.
3. Encourage healthy expression
Writing, music, physical activity or calling GriefLine are all valid ways to process grief. Let him know it’s not weak to feel – it’s human.
4. Encourage connection
Isolation can deepen grief. Suggest activities that promote connection, such as coming along to his nearest St Clare Bereavement Café for support from others who understand what he’s going through.
5. Watch for warning signs
Withdrawal, anger or risky behaviour can sometimes mask deeper emotional pain. If you’re concerned, encourage him to speak to a professional, or offer to help him find support. At GriefLine, we can signpost you to other services that may be beneficial.
Grief is not a weakness – it’s a natural response to love and loss. And it doesn’t need to be faced alone. By offering patient, non-judgemental support, you can help him carry the weight – and find a healthier way forward in his own time and way.
