Why I Won’t Answer How Maddie Died—and 5 Questions Never to Ask a Grieving Parent

When a parent loses a child to suicide, grief is complex and raw. Well-meaning questions can unintentionally deepen their pain. Instead of probing for details, focus on respecting their boundaries. Certain inquiries can imply blame or stir unresolved pain, making the journey harder. Support is best shown through presence, understanding, and letting the grieving parent share on their terms. Sometimes, the most comforting words are simply, “I’m here for you.