The global pandemic has brought the citizens of the world to a halt, with an uncertain future and great loss. The virus COVID-19 is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus that has not been found in people before. For more information, updates and how to keep yourself and the ones you love safe, please visit this link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
This virus has brought great loss to thousands of people dealing with loved ones unexpectedly passing due to the complications of the virus. Stopping the spread of COVID-19 has brought a new reality of grief and loss by cancelling weddings, birthdays, holidays, concerts, travel plans, school, school events and much more; as well as putting many people and families without a consistent income. This virus has forced individuals to both individually and collectively grieve in the face of an uncertain future.
Kendra Cherry from Very Well Mind explains, “The disruptions in the normal routines and rhythms of everyday life contribute to the lingering unease and sadness that we are all feeling. Not only are we mourning the loss of thousands of lives, but we are also mourning the loss of normalcy, from seeing our co-workers to engaging in the mundane routines that we previously took for granted.” Kendra then goes on to discuss exploring coping techniques, “Even if you cannot meet with a professional to talk about grief, you can still practice coping strategies on your own. Mindfulness, journaling, visualization, and meditation may be helpful for managing some of the anxiety, stress, and anger that you may be feeling.”
It is a difficult time in every individual’s life, everyone is dealing with their own loss in their own way. Grief is a normal response to loss, but the COVID-19 pandemic has changed many aspects of the normal grieving process. Even if direct loss has not been experienced, do not assume that your feelings are invalid. Allow yourself to mourn and treat yourself and others with kindness during this difficult time.
For more helpful information:
https://www.verywellmind.com/understanding-grief-in-the-age-of-the-covid-19-pandemic-4801931
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html