How Covid-19 has changed grieving, and what you can do to cope

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing has exacerbated feelings of grief and challenged the cultural traditions of memorializing the loss of a loved one. The physical embrace of in-person support from family and friends has been replaced with virtual modalities. Many places of worship where communities come together to celebrate life, love and loss are now closed.

However, the importance of grief and mourning rituals cannot be ignored. There are alternative ways to process grief and celebrate life during quarantine and with social distancing. Above all, there is solace knowing that post-COVID-19, you will be able to grieve and have a celebration of life in person. 

Here are a few ideas to develop new coping mechanisms and build your resilience toolbox.

Celebration of Life Event Ideas:

• Create a virtual remembrance ceremony for a loved one including favorite music, stories, and photos.

• Livestream graveside funeral services for family and friends to participate together virtually.

• Plan a future larger in-person celebration of life event.  

• Dedicate a social media page to your loved one that includes stories and photos for friends and family to contribute to. 

Grieving Ritual Ideas:

• Virtually connect with family and friends over video conferencing, phone calls, letters, social media, and email. For more on how to conduct a virtual funeral, click here.

• Participate in virtual support groups 

• Allow yourself to grieve, experience the different emotions that arise, and acknowledge your loss. 

• Create a daily routine like waking up at the same time each day, eat at regular meal times, exercise outside, and carve out time to grieve. 

• Focus on self-care like practicing meditation, journalling, engaging in spiritual practice, and connecting virtually with family and friends.

— Lesley Hellow