Whether you're visiting, texting, or calling, it's not always easy to know what to say when someone is in the hospital. It's all about showing empathy and offering comfort (but keeping it real at the same time). We've got you covered with lots of ideas for what to say, plus tips to help you say just the right thing at the right time.
Encouraging Words for Someone in the Hospital
If you've ever been in the hospital, you know how unfun it can be. You're not feeling well, not at home, and often pretty bored. It helps to hear some encouraging words during a difficult time like this. Here are a few go-to things to say:
- I'm so sorry to hear you're under the weather. Thinking of you during this time.
- Glad you're getting all the best care right now and hoping you feel better soon.
- Being in the hospital comes with lots of challenges, but I'm thinking of you and hoping you make a quick recovery.
- Here's hoping you're getting the nicest nurses and some surprisingly decent food while you're laid up. Thinking of you!
- So sorry to hear you're in the hospital. We're thinking about you and wishing you a speedy recovery.
- I was so sad to hear that you're not feeling well. If there's anything you need, please let me know.
- Just wanted you to know I'm thinking of you. I'm sure you're charming all the hospital personnel.
If the person in the hospital is seriously ill or may not recover, avoid any "feel better soon" wishes. Instead, focus on telling them how sorry you are that they're sick and that you're thinking about them.
What to Say on the Phone to a Person in the Hospital
A phone call can make a huge difference when someone is in the hospital, but what you say does matter. Keep these tips in mind during your phone conversation:
- Start by telling them you're sorry to hear they aren't well.
- Ask how they're doing and listen to what they say.
- Ask if there's anything you can do to help or if they need you to bring anything for them.
When you're talking on the phone to someone in the hospital, keep the conversation short. Phone calls can be tiring when you're not feeling well.
How to Comfort Someone in the Hospital Over Text
A quick text is a great way to tell a person in the hospital you're thinking of them. You can keep your tone casual and follow up with a phone call, visit, or card. You can't go wrong with these texts:
- Hey! I heard you're under the weather. Hoping you feel better and can go home soon!
- Just wanted you to know I'm thinking about you right now.
- So sorry you're not feeling well. I hope the food isn't too bad and you get to go home soon.
- Hey! So sorry you're in the hospital. Anything you need while you're resting up? I'd be happy to run something by.
- Just needed you to know we're all thinking about you and sending you some good health.
- Here's hoping you feel so much better soon.
Related: 100 Inspirational Get Well Soon Quotes to Uplift Your Loved One
What to Say to Someone Who Has a Loved One in the Hospital
Having a friend or family member in the hospital can be really hard, too, so it's nice to let people know you're thinking about them. You can even offer practical help if you know they're spending a lot of time at the hospital. These are a few things you can say to show your support:
- I'm so sorry to hear your mom's in the hospital. Is there anything I can do for you at home while you're spending time with her?
- I know it's a lot right now with Jack in the hospital. I'm here if you need anything at all.
- I'm so sorry to hear your dad is in the hospital. He's right where he needs to be for the best care, but it's still really hard. Thinking of you.
- Your family is on my mind right now. Sending your sister my best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Related: Helpful Things to Say & Do When Someone's Child Is in the Hospital
Show Your Care and Support
What you say when someone is in the hospital matters a lot, but it's mostly about showing you're thinking of them and empathizing. As long as you keep the context in mind, such as whether they will recover and how long that recovery might take, you're going to say the perfect thing. They'll appreciate knowing that you care and support them.
