30+ Alternatives to “My Thoughts and Prayers Are With You”

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Meaningful condolences to send a friend or acquaintance
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The phrase “My thoughts and prayers are with you” is often used in times of grief to express condolences and support. It’s an endearing message, but perhaps you don't resonate with it or feel it’s a bit impersonal. [1] Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can express the same sentiment without using the phrase “thoughts and prayers.” Take a look at the list of examples below for alternative messages to send to loved ones or acquaintances who have lost someone close to them or are going through a tough time.

What does “You’re in my thoughts and prayers” mean?

“You’re in my thoughts and prayers” is a caring expression of condolences and shows support for someone who’s grieving. Alternatively, you could say, “I’m sorry for your loss,” “Sending peace and love your way,” or “I’m thinking of you.”

Section 1 of 8:

“I am truly sorry for your loss.”

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    “You’re in my thoughts and prayers” is typically used to convey love and support after someone’s passed away. Try making the phrase more personal with one of these apologetic but supportive phrases instead: [2]
    • “There’s nothing else I can say but that I’m very sorry.”
    • “I know nothing I say can make it better, but I’m genuinely sorry for your loss.”
    • “Sending my deepest sympathies. I can’t imagine what you’re going through.”
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Section 2 of 8:

“I’m thinking of you.”

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    If “My thoughts and prayers are with you” seems too formal or religious when talking to a loved one, switch up the wording a bit. Focus on how you’ve been thinking of them to express your love and support. These responses are great for any hard situation, including death, sickness, and other losses:
    • “I hope you’re doing alright.”
    • “My heart goes out to you and your family.”
    • “I just want you to know that you’re in my thoughts.
Section 3 of 8:

“I’m here for you.”

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    Grief is an extremely difficult thing, and they’re likely going through many challenges. Extend the offer that you’ll be by their side no matter what. If they don’t need help now or don’t want to chat just yet, you can be there when they are. [3]
    • “I’ll always be by your side.”
    • “Lean on me when you need to. I’ll be here for you.”
    • “I know nothing I do can truly make it better, but I’ll be with you every step of the way.”
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Section 4 of 8:

“Please let me know if there’s anything I can do.”

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    Lend a helping hand to be supportive . Whether they’ve lost a loved one or are going through a rough patch, showing your support can be as easy as saying, “Hey, I’m always here to help.” Just make sure you’re willing to follow through with your word. [4]
    • “Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.”
    • “If you need anything at all, don’t hesitate to call.”
    • “You’re not alone in this. Please know my family and I are here for you.”
Section 5 of 8:

“We will miss them.”

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    If someone you know has lost a loved one, don’t be afraid to share a fond memory or thought you’ve had about them to pay your respects . This can help bring peace, a reminder that everyone’s legacy lives on in those they love. [5]
    • “I always knew I could depend on them. They’ll truly be missed.
    • “Even when we lose somebody, they’re not forgotten. We can keep their memory alive.”
    • “We’ll never be able to regain what we once had, but know they are forever in our hearts.”
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Section 6 of 8:

“My heart hurts for you.”

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    Even if you don’t know them that well (perhaps they’re an acquaintance or coworker), it’s important to still show empathy . Try to relate to what they’re going through—how would you feel in their shoes? What would you want to be said to you? [6]
    • “I wish I could take away your pain.”
    • “I can only imagine what you’re going through.”
    • “I miss them terribly, and I pray for you and your family every day.”
Section 7 of 8:

“Sending you peace and love.”

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    “My thoughts and prayers are with you” is an endearing message that expresses comfort and love. If you don’t resonate with the original wording, try switching things up by using words like “peace,” “love,” and “care” instead.
    • “Wishing you love and hope.”
    • “Sending you my absolute best.”
    • “Hoping you find care and love during this time.”
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Section 8 of 8:

“I love you.”

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    Showing love and compassion during times of grief and loss is an excellent way to be supportive. Think of it like extending a warm embrace. [7] These responses are great for those you’re closest to:
    • “Please remember how much you’re loved.”
    • “I adore you and will always be here for you.”
    • “Know that you’re not alone. We all love you so much.”

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      Warnings

      • “Thoughts and prayers” has recently gained a negative connotation as it’s been deemed a “say and forget” phrase, meaning that someone may not have the caring sentiment behind the message but is only saying it because they have to. [8] This is why many have turned to other alternative phrases.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://prayer.reframeministries.org/blog/what-does-it-mean-when-youre-in-somebodys-thoughts-and-prayers
      2. ↑ https://www.boltonhospice.org.uk/news/2020/12/what-to-say-and-what-not-to-say-to-someone-who-grieving
      3. ↑ https://www.boltonhospice.org.uk/news/2020/12/what-to-say-and-what-not-to-say-to-someone-who-grieving
      4. ↑ https://mygriefandloss.org/what-to-say-to-someone-grieving
      5. ↑ https://www.boltonhospice.org.uk/news/2020/12/what-to-say-and-what-not-to-say-to-someone-who-grieving
      6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/midlife-reimagined/202312/what-to-say-and-what-not-to-say-to-a-grieving-person
      7. ↑ https://mygriefandloss.org/what-to-say-to-someone-grieving
      8. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/20/us/thoughts-and-prayers-florida-school-shooting-trnd/index.html

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