The current pandemic has radically changed the way we live, work, celebrate, accompany critical patients and say goodbye to the deceased. The protection measures to prevent the spread of the virus, especially the restrictions on family support in long-stay residences for the elderly and hospitals, although they are recommended measures, it is necessary to consider that illness and death without the presence of the family is a painful experience, not only for her but also for the healthcare team. The accompaniment in the last stage of the disease and in the death of loved ones, as well as in the farewell and the celebration of rituals, are characteristic of our condition as human beings and in turn necessary for a healing experience of grief.
If the experiences of pain and suffering are not carried out in an adequate and timely manner, they can have negative effects in the medium and long term in the family as well as in the community.
In order to strengthen the commitment to the physical, mental and social well-being of the country, PAHO/WHO in Panama and the Ministry of Health held the Webinar "Accompaniment in grief during COVID-19" where strategies proposed aim at the grief of the family, children and youth population, as well as health teams.
Guidelines were defined to face the grieving process of a relative; attention to the manifestations of pain, self-care, the performance of funeral and social rituals, the support of third parties and health professionals; and due attention to the expression of feelings, positive and negative, in a safe environment, to gradually resume everyday life.
The webinar was open to the general population and was successfully attended by almost 400 people, who could interactively express their doubts and ask questions of the team of experts.
From PAHO/WHO we will maintain our commitment to the country to continue working actively in the country to promote mental health care for the population.
Link: Recording of the Webinar "Accompaniment in grief during COVID-19"