Due to the health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have suffered the loss of a loved one. Physical distancing and limitations on social gatherings have made it difficult for people to physically be with their loved ones during their time in treatment or at the time of their death. Also, spiritual rituals, funeral services and mourning practices have had to change. However, these changes are necessary to help slow the spread of the virus.
People cope with loss in different ways, however, some reactions to grief may include:
- Shock, disbelief, or denial
- Anxiety
- Distress
- Anger
- Periods of sadness
- Loss of sleep and loss of appetite
Although there is no global method to deal with loss or the death of a loved one, certain activities can be done in order to help mourners cope with their feelings of sadness and loss during the pandemic. Some of those activities include:
- Connecting with others
- Organize phone or video calls with family and friends to stay connected and keep each other company during grief.
- Set a date and time so family and friends can honor the life of the loved one via a conference call or social media.
- Create memories
- Create a virtual scrapbook, blog, or web page to honor and remember your loved one.
- Ask family and friends to include or share special stories and memories.
- Plan meaningful activities for you and your family in your loved one’s honor.
- Ask for professional help
- Seek out mental health services, grief counseling, or support groups if needed.
- Seek spiritual help from faith organizations, such as religious leaders and congregations. Always keep the COVID-19 health protocols in mind.
- Seek support from trusted friends and/or leaders in your community.
However, if your feelings are too overwhelming or hard to deal with, contact the following hotlines immediately:
- Call 911
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (press 2 for Spanish), or text TalkWithUs for English or Hablanos for Spanish to 66746. Spanish speakers from Puerto Rico can text Hablanos to 1-787-339-2663.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for English, 1-888-628-9454 for Spanish, or Lifeline Crisis Chat.
The National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA) stands in solidarity with all victims of COVID-19 and their families and friends. We hope that our communities can achieve healthy coping and acceptance during this period of uncertainty and loss. NHCOA reaffirms the importance of continuing to practice physical distancing and following the protocols indicated by health authorities to prevent further spread of COVID-19 and to protect our neighbors, friends and families.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/stress-coping/grief-loss.html
