Suddenly Loss of Best Friend

A guy a dated in college died suddenly from a heart attack last November. His best friend since middle school is still shut down and even quit his job. He doesn't have family he is close to and he is not in a relationship. I worry about him. He called last night and he said he doesn't feel like he can really open up to anyone and is limited in what he says to me because to him I am still his best friend's girl, even though we broke up almost 14 years ago. I don't know what to do. He obviously wants to open up to me, but I don't know how to help him. Any advice?

i have found it's best to tread carefully when a person is that distressed. look for a grief counselor or group in your area, perhaps ? maybe go with him the first time, or 2 ? sometimes grief can turn into a major depression, if it goes on too long, so it's important to intervene early~

how kind of you to want to be there for this person you used to know~
best wishes~
Gus

I think Gus has some good advice. Otherwise, just let him know you are there in case he does need help. Then put the ball back in his court. He has to want help.

Try to stay in touch with him and let him know you care. Check on him with a phone call periodically as the day may soon come when he'll need an ear to listen. If he wants to talk about his bf, there is no one better than you perhaps to share old feelings with about him.

I don't really have anyone to share my feelings with about my close friend who passed away. I think I would want you to call if it were me.