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Funerals and the effect of COVID restrictions
August 25, 2021
FUNERALS DURING COVID RESTRICTIONS
Funerals or rituals after a death help us to process that we have lost someone who was special to us and helps us to take in the reality of the permanence of the loss. It allows people to come together and remember their loved one, express memories of them and what they meant to the individual. The life of the person lost is described through eulogies, songs, and visual representations such as photos and videos, helping to piece together the life of the person who died. Often this may be followed by a gathering or wake where stories are told, and tears and laughter can flow. It is a rite of passage, accompanying the person who died on the last part of their journey.
During the current restrictions due to COVID-19, being able to hold a funeral has meant changes to the way in which this can happen. With the number of people able to attend funerals reduced, some have opted to live stream funeral services, while others have held private events with the intention of memorials to be held at a later date for larger groups when restrictions are lifted.
Just as the way in which we grieve is influenced by our individuality, the culture we grew up in and the relationship we had with the person who died, funerals and memorials and the ways in which we honour a death will differ also. In these times where it can be difficult to express this honour in a public way, it may be helpful to think about private rituals that can be carried out at home. For example, playing music that had meaning for you or the person who died; lighting a candle and sitting silently for a few minutes; making a collage of photos or creating a memory book; write in a journal the things you are grateful for about the person you have lost; placing a memento or even a letter written to the person in a jar or perhaps burying it in the earth; saying poems or prayers. Be creative in thinking about what has meaning for you.
The current restrictions can add another layer to the already difficult time of grieving a loved one. Reaching out to someone to talk to can be helpful to work through this process. This may be a trusted friend or relative, or maybe a professional. The Southern Highlands Bereavement Care Service can offer understanding and support at this difficult time. Contact can be made via phone on 48621701; email: [email protected]; or via our website: www.shbcs.org.au.