Grieving the Death of Our Child During the Coronavirus Pandemic

UK Helpline: 0345 123 2304 | www.tcf.org.uk have been good news regarding our child? If our child has died from Covid-19, we may also be frustrated with those who deny the reality of the pandemic. It may be difficult to see a way forward for ourselves. Our normal life has already been interrupted by social and travel restrictions. Grieving at this time of social separation means that our families or close friends whom we might have expected to rally around us are not available in the same way. The limitations on social contact might leave us feeling isolated in our grief. Friends and family who have not participated with us in the bereavement rituals that are customary within our social circle, religion or culture might also seem disconnected from the earth-shaking reality of our child’s death. If we are not living with a partner, we might feel desperately alone in our grief. If we are in a relationship, we might still feel lonely, as couples often find themselves grieving in different ways. If any of the above applies to you, then our message is: you are not alone. We can assure you from our collective experience, as fellow bereaved parents, that there are ways to cope with the acute agony of grief. The immediate pain is raw; in time it becomes more manageable. We hope you will find the following helpful. It is possible to survive and live with our loss As parents, we are accustomed to caring for others. At this moment, we also need to care for ourselves. Warm, sweetened drinks are helpful for shock. It is important to get some nutrition, even if we do not feel like eating. If we cannot face a full meal, snacks are better than nothing. A little fresh air and exercise will do us good, even if this is limited to a garden, balcony or next to an open window.