When someone you love dies, it can be hard to know how — or when — to talk about them. Many friends want to be supportive but aren’t sure what to say. Sometimes they stay silent, worried they’ll make things worse. But for those of us grieving, silence can feel like forgetting.
That’s why the Grief Heart Project was created. The Grief Heart is a simple symbol you can wear, post, or share online to let others know: I’m remembering someone today, and it’s okay to say their name.
How It Works for Grievers
The Grief Heart is meant to take the guesswork out of grief conversations. Instead of having to explain, you have a simple signal your community can learn:
- You’ll notice me wearing or posting this heart.
- When you do, it means I’m remembering my person.
- It’s an invitation. If you’d like, we can talk about them now.
Think of it as a gentle way to guide your community. Over time, people will understand that the heart means you’re open to remembering, and that it’s safe to join you in keeping your loved one’s story alive.
How Friends and Supporters Can Respond
If you see someone you care about wearing or posting the Grief Heart, here’s what helps:
- Say their name. Hearing it spoken matters.
- Share a memory. Even a small one can mean the world.
- Offer presence. A simple “I remember” or “I’m thinking of them too” is enough.
💙 The Ask
Even when you see the Grief Heart, always begin with gentleness:
- “Would you like to talk about them?”
- “Is this a good moment to share?”
- “I’m here — no pressure.”
Permission is powerful. Kindness always fits.
#WearYourHeartWednesday
The Grief Heart works any day, in any way you choose to use it. But we also host a weekly event called #WearYourHeartWednesday.
Every Wednesday, grievers and supporters around the world share their hearts together. Sometimes having a specific day makes it easier to post, to share a memory, or to let others know you’re remembering. And there’s something special about joining with others who are doing the same.
Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, you’re welcome in this weekly circle of remembrance.
Where to Get a Heart
The Grief Heart symbol is available through griefheart.org. You’ll find:
- Free downloads you can print or share online
- Pins, stickers, and magnets you can wear or keep nearby
- Resources for both grievers and supporters
Choose what feels right for you, whether that’s wearing it in public, posting it on social media, or quietly carrying it as a private reminder.
How to Spread the Word
The Grief Heart only works if others know what it means. Here are some ways to introduce it to your circle:
- Post a picture of the Grief Heart and explain what it means to you.
- Share this blog with family and friends so they know how to respond.
- Talk about it out loud. When someone asks about your pin or sticker, you can simply say, “It means I’m remembering, and if you’d like, we can talk about them.”
Every time you use the Grief Heart, you help build a culture where grief isn’t hidden, and where love and memory have space to be spoken.
Grief Heart Project 