Grief in the Workplace During COVID-19

GRIEF IS REAL, IN PANDEMIC TIMES AND NOT. 

Nearing the one year mark of this momentous change, and as we grapple with emotional health, we’re faced with the reality that more than 21,000 Canadians have lost their lives to COVID-19.

Today we’re exploring grief and loss at a time when so many of us are working from home and living remotely without our usual cadence and connections, without the presence of humanity around us.

How Grief Has Transformed During COVID-19

Feelings of Guilt

The guilt we’ve heard is about the absence of time spent with a loved one prior to their passing, as a result of COVID lockdowns.

Lack of Closure

There’s no opportunity to seek closure at a service or gravesite with other loved ones present for many.

Loss of Traditions

Whether religious or cultural, we all have rituals and traditions surrounding death. And during lockdowns and stay-at-home orders, we’re prohibited from doing these.

Feelings of Isolation

Not having others around for comfort can deeply impact how we cope with grief. Grief can already feel lonely, and that feeling is perpetuated when we’re forced to face it alone.

We’ve prepared a few takeaways as a brief reminder of how employers can help deal with a bereaved team member, in COVID days and at any time.