Facing Grief and Loss Amid a Pandemic

There is nothing that could prepare anyone for the recent years. The suffering, loneliness and pain. Not to mention the immeasurable grief in a pandemic times. People were not able to be with love ones, nor attend funerals or do anything that is considered normal when we talk about grief and loss.

In addition to not being able to be with the ones we love this pandemic has torn families and friends apart. Without getting political on a difficult and personal topic it is something we will all being trying to process for years to come.

With this said, it is a time to grieve the losses. It may be of who we are, relationships lost and not being by the side of those we needed us. Facing grief amid pandemic times leaves trauma, grief and sorrow.

Loss and the Pandemic

In addition to grieving those we lost for whatever reason, is the loss of important parts of who we are. Many suffered the loss of personal comforts such as control, freedom, and social interaction. And from a pure needs-based standpoint there is the loss of fundamentals such as jobs and the ability to afford or find basic household essentials.

Fear Guilt and Anger

Given all the losses people are experiencing during this time, there are many emotions to come to grips with. Some of which maybe emotions such as fear, guilt, and anxiety that may be with people for a long time. And some of the effects may be with them forever.

These negative feelings and feeling of grief are all completely normal. And while some may appear less troubled, others will suffer grief in pandemic times in many ways.

So if you are feeling out of sorts know that this may be in part of what you have been through in the past few years. Once you acknowledge whatever you feel, only then you can take measures to reclaim your life one day at a time.

You can begin to deal with grief, loss, and the feelings that accompany them by:

Acknowledge Your Feelings

It can be tempting to feel as though you have no right to feel the sadness or frustration you do regarding the loss(es) in your life. However, it is important to acknowledge how you feel rather than trying to hide or be in denial about those feelings.

Acknowledging how you feel gives you the chance to properly address those feelings. This may help to process these feeling so they do not build up causing any further anxiety, depression or emotions.

Self Care When Grieving 

While it is certainly important to be informed about what’s going on in the world at this time, it is important to take a break. Turn off the tv, exercise at home and take some time for self care.

Read something uplifting, take up a new hobby and do something that is positive just for you. It is okay to separate yourself from news reports or conversations regarding the pandemic that magnify the grief and loss you feel (Alarcon, 2020). Taking a moment to step away and refresh your mind can go a long way for helping you maintain your sanity and peace of mind.

Get Support Talk About Your Feelings

There are many people dealing with grief in times of the pandemic and all that has accompanied it. To help move through this difficult time. Consider joining a support group or talking to a friend who is willing to offer a support without judging. Going to these individuals can provide you the support you need to navigate this unprecedented and challenging time.

Having a support system gives you people you can confide in who can offer encouragement and uplift you during low moments. From a practical standpoint, a support system can also help provide resources and information when you are dealing with an actual loss (LaMotte, 2020).

There is no doubt these are extraordinary times for all of us. We don’t know what will happen next week, let alone next month. As we are faced with massive amounts of loss and experience grief in new and profound ways, we can overcome it.

Concluding Grief in Pandemic Time

By addressing how we feel, stepping away when it feels like too much, and turning to others for help when we need it, we can make it through. As we all do our best to make it day by day let us all try our best to be there for those around us the best way we can so that we all come out stronger and better on the other side of this.

References:

Alarcon, C. (2020, March 20). A pandemic of grief. Retrieved from https://urbanbalance.com/a-pandemic-of-grief/

LaMotte, S. (2020, April). Grief and fear after a COVID-19 death: Managing a double trauma. Retrieved from https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/grief-and-fear-after-a-covid-19-death-managing-a-double-trauma/ar-BB120knU