The Coronavirus (COVID-19) has impacted us in many ways, it not only has influenced how we live and work but also how we say good-bye to loved ones.

The limited interactions with others as we fight COVID-19 has disrupted and forever changed our lives. Tragically, our new normal impacts our ability to pay tribute to or say good-bye to loved ones who have passed away.

Grieving is difficult and one way we cope is by social connection, finding comfort in the embrace of close family members, friends, and others.  We are now faced with social distancing with far more restrictions impacting the physical comfort we are used to. It is critical now more than ever it is critical to stay connected as we find new and different ways to support loved ones and be there for the family as we learn to adjust during these difficult times.

Typically when we lose a loved one, we can say goodbye which for many gives a sense of closure and is part of the first steps of healing.   When we are not able to be physically present to say goodbye and grieve with other mourners, it can increase our sense of grief and loss.

You may have feelings of frustration, anger, and helplessness resulting in feelings of being disconnected that may prolong our grief and the healing process.   Also, with the distancing measures in place we have restrictions related to funeral and memorial services that may add an increased feeling of deep pain that feels surreal.

Funeral Directors are doing everything possible to help as we adjust to living in a different world and finding new ways to cope. For example many Funeral Directors are now able to allow a limited number of people at a time to attend funerals, or they have live streaming and recording which brings people together.

Signs of grief:

  1. Lack of focus on normal tasks
  2. Impacted sleep (more or less)
  3. Anger and/or feelings (headaches and/or upset stomach)
  4. Low energy and fatigue
  5. Going back to the experience causing you grief
  6. Engaging in activities (eating, drinking, shopping, etc).
  7. Avoid TV, review your local news only
  8. Avoid talking about the pandemic and the “what if”

How do we manage through this time?  Talk to people daily, whether on the phone or via FaceTime or other media outlets.  Join an online grief support group where you can talk and be encouraged by others dealing with the same type of pain, and take care of yourself physically, rest, eat properly, do a little exercise, walk around the house, get some fresh air.

Also yourself emotionally by talking to your Pastor, a trusted friend, or a Counselor or Grief Coach especially if you are not coping well.

Loss and grief is is a reminder of how many things are out of our control and sudden and unexpected loss can bring on feelings of anxiety and fear along with that grief.  Remember grief is a normal reaction to loss.  At some point we all experience grief and it is important to acknowledge the pain and work with someone to help you through your pain.

I encourage you to not dismiss your feelings. It’s important to know you have lost a loved one and your feelings are legitimate.  Allow yourself to experience loss and you have the right to grieve and feel those emotions.

A support system is crucial, so reach out, get the coaching you may need to help.

I offer grief and Joy Restoration coaching and will work with you during these difficult times.  Reach out through joythroughjoy.com or message me.

Love and Peace,

Joy

 

 

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