Losing a loved one is never easy, and with social distancing measures and quarantine recommendations set in place, it’s difficult to plan a proper service to honor their life. However, there are still grief counseling strategies that can be used during this time. Even though you may not be able to have a funeral or physical memorial soon, there are other techniques to work through your loss.

How to Grieve During COVID-19

1. Take Care of Yourself

The grieving process is different for everyone, so don’t feel like you need to rush through it. However, you should always practice self-care while you are mourning your loss.

Make sure you’re eating healthily, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. Also, set aside time for activities like journaling, going on socially distanced walks, or expressing yourself creatively. Establishing these routines can help you manage your emotions during this difficult time.

2. Seek Professional Help

While many grief counseling offices have been forced to close temporarily due to the virus, there are still options available to receive professional assistance. Find a therapist who is hosting phone call sessions or virtual meetings and schedule an appointment. They have the training needed to help you understand your feelings and deal with them healthily.

3. Stay Connected

You may not be able to gather at a funeral home or attend any burial services, but you can still connect with friends and family to honor your loved one. Write letters, schedule calls with a supportive group, or set up a video chat where you can share stories with those closest to you. These social activities can help mitigate your stress and provide meaningful connections to the people in your life.

4. Minimize Negative Exposure

It’s important to stay updated on the latest developments in the news, but exposing yourself to excessive amounts of negativity is counterproductive while grieving. If the deluge of news is raising your stress levels, only tune in for short periods during the day.

Instead, focus on restorative activities that provide comfort. For some people, that might mean relaxing every evening with a well-loved book. For others, it might mean channeling emotions into a new hobby, such as windowsill gardening, cooking, or exercising at home.

 

If you are struggling during these difficult times, contact Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle, AR, for grief counseling help. For more than a century, this locally owned funeral home has helped residents deal with their grief after losing a loved one. They can help with any funeral arrangements and have the resources to help you through the mourning process. Call (479) 229-2524 to speak to a representative or browse their resources online.