Talking about grief is key to nation dealing with mourning during pandemic, say experts

People mourning in lockdown should be encouraged to talk about their feelings and not have to put grief on hold, say mental health experts. 

With social distancing still in place, many Britons are dealing with the loss of loved ones for the first time alone, including those with relatives and friends among the 36,000 people who have died from coronavirus.

A blog written by psychologists Dr Evgenia Stefanopoulou and Grace Bamber, from employee health and wellbeing specialists Rightsteps, offers support on coping with grief in these difficult times.

The advice includes how to come to terms with being unable to say goodbye because of coronavirus-related restrictions such as visiting people in hospital, attending funerals and even holding the hands of those who are unwell during their final days.   

Letting go of regret about what could have been done differently, not hurrying the grieving process and seeking support if feelings of distress intensify over time are among the strategies highlighted in the blogpost.

Dr Stefanopoulou, Clinical Psychologist at Rightsteps, said: “Losing someone under the additional challenging circumstances of COVID-19 can leave people feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to cope.

“Many are unable to grieve in the way they would expect during previous times.

"Sadly, people may not have the opportunity to say goodbye to their loved one before they die.

"They may not be able to attend the funeral and others might be on their own, unable to have a hug from a friend.

“During the grieving process, there are many things we can do to look after our own and other people’s wellbeing.

"That includes speaking to a GP or mental health professional.”

Julie Bass, Chief Executive at Turning Point, said: “Many of us have been cut off from family and friends during the lockdown.

“Losing loved ones will add even more emotional trauma to an already distressing situation. 

"We need to find successful ways to cope, make sure we take care of ourselves and deal with grief in the healthiest way.” 

The post on bereavement is part of the Rightsteps ‘Keeping Well’ blog series which features discussions on different topics, as well as ideas to help everyone through the pandemic, keep well and look after their health and wellbeing.

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