Grieving the loss of a loved one while coping with the fear and anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic can be especially overwhelming.
Social distancing, “stay-at-home-orders,” and limits on the size of in-person gatherings have changed the way friends and family can gather and grieve, including holding traditional funeral services, regardless of whether or not the person’s death was due to COVID-19.
However, these types of prevention strategies are important to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Recognize that grieving is normal – it is ok to cry or be upset. Some actions you can take to help you cope with feelings of grief after the loss of a loved one include:
• Talk about your feelings with others who are willing to listen. Try connecting with a friend on the phone or video chat instead of in person.
• Tell others how you need to be supported… do you want people to call or leave you alone? Tell them.
• Allow yourself time to reflect on your feelings by writing in a journal, creating art or music, going for walks outdoors (while socially distancing), or talking to someone you trust.
• Take care of yourself! Eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, exercise regularly.
Develop a virtual memory book, blog, or webpage to remember the person you lost and ask family and friends to contribute their memories and stories.
• Take part in an activity that has significance to your lost loved one—like planting a tree or preparing one of their favorite meals—and then share it with them (by talking about how much they love steak, for example).
• Reach out to your religious organization for spiritual support and community. If you have a religious leader or minister in your life, reach out and ask them if you can call them every week or set up an online video call where you can share your thoughts and feelings.