Grief starts with goodbye, but the COVID-19 pandemic has made that impossible for some people to do in person. Saskatoon psychologist Alexandra Froese said that makes an already painful process more difficult. “It is heartbreaking to see your family member out there, not being able to reach out and show care and love in your regular ways,” Froese told Global News. “There’s no simple solution to that, really, right now.
We’re trying to all be resilient and creative.” Finding closure can be challenging without an in-person farewell, she said, but there are other ways to say goodbye.
She recommends sending a conversational video or letter. “You’re with them with your heart, with your mind and … extending your care in that way.