What should you do when youre entrusted to give someone tragic news about a loved one?
Dont break the news in a voicemail
Say youre not able to see them in person.
You call instead and it goes unanswered.
Should you leave a message explaining the events?
No, according to Cohen.
You cant guarantee theyre in a position to receive bad news (say theyre on the road.
You wouldnt want them to panic).
Instead, just state that its bad news and find an available time to speak.
I have some news that will probably be distressing to you, she suggested.
Then, make it 100 percent clear who or what is involved.
When people hear that theres bad news coming they not even really listening or absorbing it, Cohen added.
Theyre sort of figuring this all out before you say it.
Assuage any doubt by clarifying from the get-go and dont launch into long-winded stories.
Simply tell it chronologically and with no uncertainty.
Your sister was admitted to hospital last night, Alderman suggested on Twitter.
She was very ill with a high fever.
The doctors gave her antibiotics but nothing worked.
At 9AM today she died.
If you dont have the answers, thats okay, too.
Let them know youll share details with them once that becomes available to you.
And if they begin to cry, simply let them know, Im here.
Stay calm
Of course, dont add to the chaos of the situation.
If youre going to confuse them, then its really not helpful, she said.
you could have your partner or your husband or your friend do it.
Have a number of these calls to make?
Have a friend nearby to comfort you (its not an easy task for you, either).
Write down everything in order, from who is involved to answers you will have to provide.
Do you usually text?).
Thats okay, too.
Let them know youre there if they need answers and your job may be done.
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