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The coronavirus pandemic

Since early in 2020, we have been dealing with the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic which has been felt in every facet of our lives.

Too many of us have lost loved ones who have died from the virus, either here or overseas, without the opportunity to be present or to say ‘goodbye’. Others who have died from illness, accidents, or in aged care settings during the pandemic have also been isolated as a result of health restrictions. The idea that they died ‘alone’ may be particularly painful.

Grief following the death of a loved one has also been compounded by limitations on the number of people who were able to attend a funeral. This was at a time when families need as much support as possible, and relatives and friends need the opportunity to publicly recognise their grief at the loss of someone who was important in their lives.

Restrictions on movements, ‘lockdowns’, and periods of isolation, while deemed necessary to reduce the spread of the virus, have imposed terrible burdens of loneliness and mental health challenges for many.

Physical health has also been impacted for many people who are suffering from ‘long covid’, with loss of their health and their usual way of life. And although the emphasis on Covid 19 has reduced in our daily news, the real threat to our health and our health systems still remains high.

The economic impact of the pandemic has, in many cases, led to the loss of a business or a job. Financial insecurity and pressures are at an all-time high with many people struggling to see a way forward.

For many, the result of all this is ongoing fear and uncertainty and we are challenged to find a way to deal with these very natural feelings.

Gradually, people are re-connecting with family and friends in person, finding the support they need, as well as continuing all the other ways to connect that were discovered during the lockdowns and border closures. But there are still many people who continue to feel isolated, and who may be grieving alone. Whilst governments and services are doing what they can to provide support, we also need to look out for one another.

Although GriefLink doesn’t offer direct counselling support, it has a wide range of resources among its pages which focus on different forms of grief, and some suggestions about how to deal with them.

 

If you or someone you know is having difficulties, do not hesitate to reach out for help from the support services listed below. Please be assured of our concern for you and our wish for your health and wellbeing in these challenging times.

 

Telephone support

Lifeline · 13 11 14

Griefline · (6am-Midnight AEST) 1300 845 745

 

Additional resources

 

Page last updated: 31 October, 2023