BPS responds to UK Covid-19 deaths exceeding 100,000

We've responded to the latest data on Coronavirus deaths in the UK, highlighting the importance of the right psychological and practical support for people who have lost a loved one.

Responding to the latest data on Coronavirus deaths in the UK, Professor Nichola Rooney, chair of the British Psychological Society's Covid-19 bereavement task force, said:

"More than 100,000 people have now died from Covid-19 in the UK; a devastating milestone in this pandemic.

Behind this distressing statistic are hundreds of thousands of people mourning the loss of a beloved partner or family member; a dear friend or colleague, in circumstances that limit how they can remember and celebrate their loved ones' lives, share their grief, and support one another.

Losing a loved one in any situation is one of the most difficult emotional experiences that we go through, and it can be even tougher at a time when we have to self-isolate and socially distance from friends and family. 

Our thoughts are with all those who have lost a loved one during the pandemic. It's vital that people receive the right psychological and practical support to help them through this incredibly difficult time."  

The BPS has published psychological guidance to help people experiencing a bereavement:

• Supporting yourself and others: coping with death and grief during the Covid-19 pandemic explains the thoughts and feelings that people are likely to experience after a loved one dies and gives advice on coping. 
• Continuing Bonds gives advice on alternative ways to remember family members and friends who have died during the pandemic. 
• Using technology to say goodbye talks about the difficulties of saying goodbye to loved ones and grieving during the current pandemic, and the ways in which technology might be able to help.
• Supporting each other following the death of a colleague gives advice for people experiencing the death of a colleague. 
• Death and grieving in a care home during Covid-19: the experience of care staff, residents and families offers guidance to help residents, care staff and families and friends of a loved one cope with the pressures, fears and challenges during the pandemic.
• Planning for your digital legacy – many of us store practically important and sentimentally valuable information using technological devices. If important material is stored on password-protected devices it is important for people to make sure that their families are able to access this material should the worst happen. This guidance offers advise on how to make this happen.