Grief, loss and mental illness: the fourth wave

There is a light at the end of the pandemic tunnel as the vaccine rolls out across the country. While that positive news is keeping many of us focused on “the end,” there is another crisis looming: the fourth wave. 

The fourth wave of COVID-19 is anticipated to be a mental health wave, as the impacts of the global health crisis are felt around the world. 

Research indicates that for every COVID-19 death, there are approximately nine loved ones left behind. In Canada, more than 22,000 people have died from COVID. Which means that close to 200,000 Canadians are dealing with the loss of a loved one. Closer to home, if we look at Alberta where more than 1,900 individuals have passed away, there are more than 17,000 grieving. 

But just as those who have died are more than a number, so are those left behind. We are grandparents, parents, siblings, spouses and children who are not only grappling with the overwhelming impact of a health crisis that has taken a loved one from us, but we aren’t able to grieve properly — with our other loved ones.

Funerals are taking place on Zoom at a distance where we try to support each other without the power of human touch. A touch of a hand. A hug. It’s part of what makes us human and how we grieve together to find a way forward. 

So we just focus on getting by. One day at a time and everything is about logistics.

For those with kiddos, some kids are at home full-time, others are in and out of isolation as cases touch classrooms. There are no playdates. There are no summer camps. Everyone is on top of each other, 24/7. It’s exhausting. 

For those who live alone, isolation has taken on a new level. It’s exhausting.

The exhaustion, grief and depression is impacting everyone in different ways. And it’s important to recognize it, and reach out for help. 

When to ask for help

Mental health can go in waves. We all feel stress here and there. It’s okay to feel sad and have moments of frustration and despair. But if you’re finding these feelings are here more often than not, it’s okay to reach out for help. 

Consider touching base with a Some Other Solutions counsellor if…

  • you’re struggling to grieve the loss of a loved one, from COVID or any other reason

  • you’re constantly worried and stressed about something bad happening

  • you’re feeling angry and are struggling to self-regulate

  • you’re core relationships are filled with conflict 

  • you’re just not interested in doing anything

  • you’re drinking heavily or using drugs

Counselling can be booked directly on the SOS website. And if you need to remember some of the positives that came out of COVID-19, check out our previous blog!

Melanie Nicholson