The second wave of COVID-19 hit India like a Tsumani, and left death and destruction in its wake. And as a young person, experiencing collective trauma on such a scale can cause feelings of anxiety and despair. Most of us know someone or the other who has suffered loss, and the tragic part is that we can’t physically be there to support them right now. But it is in times like these that we need to step up for our loved ones. So if you know someone who’s suffered loss, here’s how you can do your bit for them.
Lend An Ear
Everybody has their own way of coping with grief, and some of it might not make sense to you. However, refrain from offering them advice and just listen to what they have to say. In times like these, all they are looking for is someone who will listen. So be patient, and lend them an ear.
Don’t Offer ‘Positive Affirmations’
While you may mean well, asking someone to look at the bright side when they have lost someone can make them feel worse. So don’t tell them things like “life goes on” or “try to be positive”. It might hurt the person and drive them away from you.
Send Them Home-Cooked Meals
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When you are grieving, even the simplest of tasks can seem like a chore. Sometimes people can be so wrapped up in their sorrow that they don’t focus on basic things like cooking or eating on time. So why not cook some wholesome meals for them and deliver them to their doorstep? This will truly make them feel cared for and appreciated.
Offer To Run Errands
Sometimes, life gets in the way of grief. A lot of people may not have time to process their emotions because they have a million errands to deal with after someone’s death. If you can, take some of that burden off them and offer to help them out in whatever capacity you can. Trust us, they will surely appreciate it.
Stay Connected
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In the event of a death, people often flood the bereaved family with condolences, but don’t check-in after. But someone who is suffering through this pain can feel a sense of isolation days, weeks and months later. So it is important to stay connected with them and let them know you are there for them. This can be done through a routine phone call and text messages, or video calls—you don’t always need to offer words of comfort, just say hi!
Offer Mental Health Resources If They Need It
Grief and loss can be devastating for a person, and not everyone copes well with it. If your loved one is finding it hard to deal with their loss, seeking help from a mental health professional might be a good idea. If they have expressed their interest in seeing a therapist, help them out by researching mental health resources near them. You could also offer to make an appointment for them, and drive them to the doctor’s office.
When caring for someone who is grieving, your biggest priority should be to support them in the way they ask. Your love and support will go a long way in helping them heal.
Featured Image: Pexels
This article is part of a social initiative called #KhayalRakhna by Philips. We hope to provide you with some comfort, relief and guidance as we power through these tough times. If you are finding it hard to cope, we encourage you to get in touch with a mental health professional.
