News travels fast in this digital world we live in today. Because of this, we need to take a moment to sit with information before sharing our own personal perspective, thoughts or condolences immediately.
In the story Grief Etiquette in the Digital Age on the Remembering A Life website, an initiative from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), one woman explains that while she was still processing the news of a lost loved one, her phone was already filled with messages from people she knew.
The immediacy of news and information has changed the way we learn about death and it can be very overwhelming for those who have lost someone. Social media offers a wonderful, virtual gathering place to mourn and talk. But to avoid unintentional harm to the family, follow these important guidelines.
From Remembering a Life (NFDA):
Wait for the family: don’t post about a death or share information before the family has formally announced the situation.
Reach out privately first: A phone call or card, even a DM, can be much more meaningful than a public post.
Consider asking permission: Before you share your personal memories or photos, ask the family if it’s okay with them if you post publicly.
Never speculate: never publicly post with speculative thoughts about a death; this can cause serious hurt feelings.
Offer ongoing support: this is not new information; grief doesn’t end after the funeral. Check in with the family over the next several weeks and even months.
Grief will always be a complex emotion. Use your best judgment and put the best interest of the surviving family first and you’ll be headed in the right direction.
Local Resources:
Good Grief of Northwest Ohio: Provides support services for grieving children, teens and young adults.
Hospice of Northwest Ohio: Provides support groups and workshops.
Monarch Grief Center: Offers individual grief counseling, couples and family grief counseling and more.