Knowing how to offer comfort and support to a loved one who has a terminal illness can be challenging. What can you say or do? How can you help your loved one cope? How will you deal with your own grief? Mary E. Johnson, a chaplain at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., shares some advice.

My loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal illness. How might our relationship change?

Your relationship with your loved one might not necessarily change because he or she has a terminal illness. If you’re concerned, try to build on your relationship’s strengths. It’s also important to be open to new possibilities. A loved one’s terminal diagnosis might improve your relationship.

How can I help my loved one cope with a terminal illness?