One Virus. Many Losses.

 Coping with Loss During COVID

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COVID-19 has left many things in its wake, including the stark reality that most of us are experiencing grief and loss. Many grieve the loss of the fabric of daily life - the loss of a job, routine, and social connections. Others may grieve the loss of a loved one or the inability to be with loved ones because of health restrictions. We may also miss cherished opportunities to make memories in the rituals that mark our lives like weddings, graduations, and funerals.

Please watch the virtual presentation above entitled One Virus. Many Losses. to learn more about coping and adjusting to grief and loss.

The program features a panel of knowledgeable leaders including Reverend Dr. Donald Gray, Faith Community Nurse Carolyn Thompson, RN, BSN, Reverend Sandi Hood and Chaplain Kim Dowell.

Reverend Dr. Gray, pastor of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in Catawba, NC, suggests actions we can take to help ourselves and others as the fight against COVID-19 continues:

1.      Try not to watch too much news

  • While it’s important to stay informed, watching too many alarming news stories may lead us to dwell on stressful situations we may feel helpless to change.

2.      Maintain routine

  • Establishing a routine schedule for eating, sleeping and daily activities can go a long way to help our social and emotional wellbeing.

3.      Exercise regularly

  • Regular exercise can help to reduce stress and release our body’s natural “feel-good” hormones.

4.      Reach out to others

  • Finding creative ways to connect with others by bringing a meal, giving someone a call or simply saying “I love you” can help you and others feel less lonely and isolated.

“There’s hope. There’s always hope,” says Reverend Dr. Gray “The first thing to do is to acknowledge that your feelings of loneliness and isolation are normal and give yourself permission to grieve. Also remember to share your feelings with others and stay connected.”

The pandemic is not easy for any of us. It’s more important than ever to reach out of your comfort zone during this time of crisis and extreme change.