Grief affects each one of us differently. It stays to remind us of the loved ones no longer around & how much they meant to us. With the world being in lockdown, self-isolation, dealing with grief has become even more difficult.
At times like this, some are fortunate enough to have a support network of people who will rally around and envelop them with reassuring words and a comforting embrace. Some might distract themselves from intense feelings of grief and loss by throwing themselves into their usual, everyday routine and responsibilities.
Below is a list of 8 things you can try if you or someone you know is grieving in isolation during a difficult time like this;
- Keep in touch with family and friends virtually. Some people gain significant amount of comfort from the interactions as they provide a way of grieving together while being apart. Converse with them about what you’re going through and let them be a virtual support shoulder to cry on.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. It’s not a sign of weakness to need ask for help if you need it – please don’t be afraid to ask for support from friends and loved ones, or from organizations that are there to help.
- A few days is going to be tough, don’t be hard on yourself. Be gentle. Remember that grief is a natural feeling. Don’t use harsh language while talking to yourself and with others. Allow yourself to grieve. Everyone experiences grief differently.
- Accept that you will go through a whole range of emotions from sadness to anger, guilt, and loss of motivation, during the day, in a week or an hour. Some days will be good and some will be bad, but it is important to reach out to people on these days.
- Look after yourself. Try to maintain some kind of routine and structure your day. Try to eat healthy nourishing food. Drink enough water; get plenty of rest and exercise. Maintain your sleep schedule; let your body guide you as it works to fix you in your time of need.
- Draw comfort from your faith. Even though, all religious places are closed, you can always draw comfort from praying, meditation and readings. You can also join in virtual religious support groups during this difficult time.
- Find ways to give yourself a short break. Only focus on things that give you comfort. Do things that do not over-work your mind.
- Be creative. Find ways to express yourself and connect with people around you. If you find it difficult to talk then write a letter to the person who has died by telling them how you feel and what they meant to you. You can also journal down your emotions and use mindfulness colouring books as a way to soothe and calm yourself.
Conclusion
Learning to cope with grief is an experience as unique as you are. No two individuals experience grief the same way. There is no wrong or right way to manage it, but it is extremely important to recognize how you feel and do things that will help you.
Being bereaved can feel isolating sometimes; and with the current lockdown conditions adds an extra layer of complexity to an already challenging time. Remember to be gentle and kind to yourself. Treat yourself with compassion and reach out for support whenever you feel you are in need of it.
