Planning and Support Systems After the Loss of a Loved One

Abstract

Loss and subsequent grief are hard. Picking up the pieces after a death while trying to plan a funeral and take care of other responsibilities can leave people feeling a myriad of emotions. Making sure family members of all ages are cared for while dealing with their feelings is difficult on a regular day, but it is even more complicated amid a pandemic. The author of this chapter shares their insights and suggestions, having been through this themselves. Different cultures, ethnicities, religions, socioeconomic status, and developmental factors must also be addressed. COVID-19 affected people in all these areas and placed restrictions on regular practices that may be felt for years. Suggestions for moving on after this scenario are listed to help those affected. Included are suggestions for teachers and counselors to process their feelings and help their students and clients grieve and heal.