We’ve reached that stage in the pandemic where many of us know of someone who’s died from complications related to contracting the virus. Perhaps it’s someone close to us, or a significant other of a close personal friend.
These are unprecedented times and with our usual grieving rituals banned or strongly discouraged at least, it’s even more difficult to come to terms with our loss. Here’s how you can help someone close to you cope with this solitary kind of mourning.
Plan a Virtual Memorial
With your friend’s permission, plan a virtual ceremony to remember the deceased. Ask close friends and family to share their memories of the person and a short tribute to them during this occasion.
See if you can get their minister to lead the proceedings to add a sense of familiarity to an otherwise unfamiliar occasion.
Remember the Good Times
Gather some of the happier memories of the deceased person and share them with others who were close to them. Reach out to those who knew them best for stories, pictures, and recollections of their achievements.
You can collect all these memories and create an online album to commemorate their life or share all the contributions you get in a group email.
Another way to memorialise the deceased is to place a tribute on our wall.
Be Supportive in a Proactive Way
While you shouldn’t overburden your friend with constant offers of assistance, be there for them without being overbearing.
Check-in with them regularly via phone. If you can arrange for them to speak to a counsellor, do so.
Let them know that you’re always available to talk or to help them get through this in any way you can.
Help Loved Ones’ Grieving to Plan for the future
Right now, it might seem like we’ll never get through this crisis, but it will pass.
While they have to go through the process of grieving, try to help your friend move past this terrible time by focussing on happier times in the future.