The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in tremendous loss for many people around the world. Such loss has presented in a variety of ways: loss of income, loss of healthcare, and loss of life and loved ones.
Loss, or the fear of loss, can bring about bad feelings and symptoms of stress and anxiety. These feelings can range from mild to debilitating, or completely unbearable. This is normal even when not living through a pandemic; behavioral, emotional and mental health conditions occur in 1 in 5 people in the US, and 1 in 4 globally, according to the World Health Organization.
It is important to identify healthy ways of coping and practicing self care to address these symptoms, and know that continued support may be necessary long after the obvious triggers are gone. There are many options for care and in many settings; finding a healthy method that works for your personal situation will increase your chance for success. This Healthline article is a great resource to help figure out what type of support might work best for you, based on how you’re feeling.
If you are faced with grief now or in the future, it’s important to understand that there is no “right” way to grieve. Grief is different for everyone and the intensity of emotions brought on by the experience can change over time, and sometimes even moment to moment. When supporting someone else who is grieving, take your cues from the person as to what would be comforting or helpful to them. If you aren’t sure, ask – and be specific.
The National Institute on Mental Health has representatives available via phone or online chat; additionally, several mental and emotional healthcare providers offer several options for receiving care and support, and within various insurance plan models. Some trusted websites are listed below.
Penn Counseling Pracheta Trivedi – , M.Ed., LPC, Counselor
Jacqueline Cahalan, PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist