What can you say instead of "aww" or "that sucks" when someone says something bad that happened to them? I always feel so rude!

I'm sorry to hear about (whatever/whomever). Is there anything I can do?

Oh... That's too bad. I had the same thing happen to me (if you did - Some people just need to know that others have had it happen to them, too, and they are not alone. I mean, they may KNOW it, but they forget, sometimes, when it's happened to them. You don't have to go into details, unless they ask.

I, personally, don't believe that you are being rude. There are a LOT of people that don't know what to say to another when something happens. Just BEING there, and for them to know that you will do what you can to help out is a GREAT thing. Many people, depending on the situation, may not be able to or want to function well for a while. (Loss of or Break up with a loved one, pet, etc. are biggies in peoples' lives.) Just knowing you will listen (and DO it... Don't talk unless it's something THEY ask about...), that you are around, help them with little things like straightening up the living room, washing the dishes, taking out the trash, occasionally buying something they like to eat - Pizza, Burgers, whatever - and sharing it with them - will help them feel a bit more "normal".

I usually go with "I'm sorry to hear that."

Say, "my heart goes out to you" or "I'm sorry this happened to you, how can I help?"

That's not good! I will keep you in my prayers:)

' oh my goodness, are you okay OR how are you doing with that ? '

Do a John Cena impersonation and go "You know...(pause and take a few deep breaths) that kind of thing... (another few deep breaths)...really, realllyyyy...(then explode) PISSES MEEEE...OFF!!!!!!!!!!!"

bummer or that's horrible and then go on to tell them something sucky that happened to me to make them feel better.

I never say either of those. I say something like, "that's too bad" or "I'm sorry to hear that" or if it's kind of informal or light, "bummer."

if your stuck for words and what they've said is pretty bad just hug them.

It depends on the level of sadness like if its a "their mom just died" you could say "man im so sorry for your lost." but if its like a "dude my fingernail just broke" then u should stick with "aww that sucks."

Say: "I'm glad that wasn't me".

Wow. I feel for you bro.

You could say in a polite way but without offending them "It sucks to be you" or it could'nt have happend to a nicer person!:)