5 Ways To Cope With Bereavement During Social Distancing
At a time when you need to be surrounded by your loved ones the most, social distancing can make it more difficult to cope with bereavement. At Douch Family Funeral Directors we understand exactly how difficult these times are for each individual. Bereavement is never something you should have to go through alone and you aren’t alone. There are so many people out there right now experiencing the same thing.
It’s hard to know what to do when someone dies and how to cope with bereavement and everyone copes in their own way. In times like this where so many people can relate with one another, we’ve found 5 methods of coping with bereavement during social distancing.
1. Keep communicating
As the saying goes, communication is key. It is easy to want to switch off from the world when you are coping with bereavement and that is completely understandable. However, staying connected with your friends and family will help keep your mind occupied and avoid you being alone with your thoughts of grief. To maintain social distancing, it is advised to stick to digital communication such as Zoom calls, phone calls or Facetime. Just being able to at least see your loved ones will allow you to receive support for the grief you are experiencing.
2. Reach out for professional support
Not everyone finds it easy to reach out but for those who do, it is always worthwhile. If you are not sure how or where to find grief support, talk to your GP. Your doctor can point you in the right direction of professional grief support services. Alternatively, join one of our several local bereavement groups which we are still running in groups of under 6.
The internet is another great tool for finding likeminded people who are also experiencing grief. Bereavement groups can be found on social networking sites like Facebook, but also through local organisations and by searching online.
3. Don’t isolate yourself
If you feel like no one understands what you’re going through, you might start to isolate yourself from friends and family. However, it is important to take care of yourself and engage with others when coping with bereavement. Going for a walk and getting some fresh air at least once a day will help relieve some of the stress you are experiencing. Good Thinking is also a great online tool with NHS-approved resources on how to take care of yourself. You could also try the Good Thinking app ‘My Possible Self’, which includes advice on managing loss and major life changes.
4. Remember this feeling won’t last forever
It is easy to feel like the world will never be the same after you lose a loved one, but over time your good times will overcome the bad. Reaching out for grief support and joining a bereavement group can help you feel less alone and in turn, help you get back to feeling yourself again.
5. Try to fill the void with positivity
Now, this may be easier said than done, but maintaining a positive attitude when you are feeling down will help. Taking up a new hobby or doing something you enjoy are all ways to cope with bereavement. This could be baking, painting or playing a sport. Participating in charity work is another activity that can help with grief. When you give back and help other people, you will feel uplifted knowing you are doing good for other people. There are limitless hobbies which could be taken up, but it’s about finding which one is right for you.
At Douch Family Funeral Directors we host regular local bereavement groups that are open to the community and to those who feel they could benefit from meeting others and seeking professional, friendly support.
To find out more about our funeral services and local bereavement support groups, contact us today, by getting in touch with or visiting your nearest local branch.
