Exchange The Term Social Distancing: Grief Support at Bakken Young

by Chaplain Julia Rajtar, MAPS, BCC

Exchange the term Social Distancing for Physical Distancing

In this time of crisis, let us remember that we are not socially distancing, we are physically distancing, to flatten the curve and limit the spread of the virus.  We cannot be physically present to each other, yet we are doing what we can to be socially present and accessible to each other.  We are in this together,  not fully physically together, but we are socially together through presence in alternative technological ways.  (A white paper:  UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES OF COVID-19 by William G. Hoy & Helen W. Harris, Baylor University Professors)

Virtual Grief Support

Following the guidance of the CDC and the Wisconsin Department of Health, we have eliminated in- person groups, whether it is the Coffees every other Friday or the grief groups. None of these groups will be held in person.  They will, however, be offered virtually.

Coffee and Conversation via Technology

With the Friday coffees, for the time being, we will hold them via zoom meeting technology.  If you are interested in joining us for coffee and conversation, please email Julia with your name & email, and an invitation will be sent to you for coffee & conversation, twice a month on Fridays, from 8am-9am.

Grief Support Group held via Technology

Grief support group will meet using zoom meeting technology until further notice.  Our next grief group will be specific to suicide loss:  Suicide Loss Virtual Grief Support Group, beginning Thursday, May 7, 2020 from 6-7pm.  Additional 6-week virtual grief groups will be scheduled soon.  Please watch the Bakken-Young Calendar of Events for further information.

Other Resources

You will find these and other helpful grief resources for coping during this difficult time, on our web site.  Please remember to take care of yourself.  Some ways you can do that is by viewing this link below:

Ways to Care for Yourself

https://www.abc4.com/news/health/coronavirus/take-mental-health-moments-to-cope-with-covid-19/amp/

What to Tell Children

https://abcnews.go.com/Health/explaining-coronavirus-children-best-approach/story?id=69358245

Grief Support Resources

Mindfulness & Grief web site offers tools to help practice mindfulness while coping with your grief and loss.  It can also provide some peace in this time of anxiety and unknowing.

Bakken-Young Grief Support/Resources   offers a variety of links to help families cope with grief and loss.

On behalf of Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services, be well and be safe.
Reach out to our grief support coordinator as needed, Julia.rajtar@bakken-young.com, or call 715-781-4003.
Peace and blessings to all.

My great hope is to laugh as much as I cry; to get my work done and try to love somebody and have the courage to accept the love in return. Maya Angelou

Julia