For people working in healthcare: Module 1 - COVID-19 and grief
Module introduction
Some of the videos were filmed before the COVID-19 pandemic, but they speak to the themes of this module.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all grappling with ongoing change, feeling uncertain about our safety, and anxious about our future and the well-being of those we love. Many working in healthcare are experiencing emotions similar to those associated with grief.
Click on the arrows below to reveal concerns people working in healthcare have shared with us.
Uncertainty and fear of being infected or infecting others including families and co-workers
Needing to develop creative ways of supporting our patients and families who are grieving in isolation
Death of residents, patients, and colleagues as a result of COVID-19
Insufficient Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and medical equipment, or fear our institutions will run out of PPE
Caring for patients in both usual and extraordinarily difficult situations
COVID-19 information 'overload' and the need to stay up to date with the changing nature of practice and public health guidelines
In addition to this we are needing to find:
Strategies to cope with our own fear and anxiety, and that of our patients and their families
Ways to remain well and feel connected with others.
This module will help answer questions about how the COVID-19 global pandemic may be impacting our thoughts, feelings, and reactions, as well as our work within the healthcare system. Some of these questions include:
What are the similarities and differences between stress and grief? How are they linked to working in healthcare during COVID-19?
What are some strategies to help us respond to our grief?
How can we regain and maintain a sense of control and well-being?