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As humans, we are naturally deeply connected to the world around us. When large-scale events unfold, whether locally or globally, it’s natural to feel their weight. We often absorb the emotions of the collective, and process shared grief. This shared experience serves as a reminder that we are not alone in our sorrow, but rather that humanity is united.
In events like the devastating flash floods in Texas, where over 100 lives were lost and many were left missing, including young girls at Camp Mystic, a summer camp in the state, the impact is far-reaching. This phenomenon, which can also arise from a natural disaster, is called collective grief, according to Grief Recovery Center, a mental health counseling practice. It’s when a community, society, or country faces a dramatic change or profound loss.
How to Heal Collective Grief
Though grieving can feel overwhelming, healing is always possible, both personally and as a community. Read ahead for tips on how to navigate difficult times and find solace together.
Give Yourself Space to Grieve
While everyone reacts in different ways to collective grief, it’s important to give yourself time to mourn and explore your feelings. Grief isn’t linear, and it’s important to honor your emotions, whether it’s through talking to a friend, journaling, or seeking out a therapist.
Give Back as a Community
Getting involved in your community can help make a positive difference in the face of collective grief. As you focus on your own healing journey, consider how you can help your community and get involved. Ways to make an impact include bringing friends and family together to volunteer, or joining a local organization that plays a role in making your community stronger.
Healing Through Connection
One of the most profound ways to heal is through spending time with others. In the wake of the flash floods in Texas, Rector Christopher Girata is encouraging anyone struggling to reach out and connect with others, CBS News reports.
He says when this kind of experience happens, it can be natural to process things independently. “I would encourage people to not stay separated from others. When we get together, we can cry, we can laugh, we can pray, we can sing. Being together makes us better. Being together helps us to heal,” Girata tells CBS News.
Efforts are already underway to provide spaces to allow people to heal together, with the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas creating healing circles to help families and young people cope with trauma in the midst of the recent tragedy, according to KSAT.
Every action matters when it comes to healing through connection. So reach out to a family member, friend, or neighbor, a blog on Psychology Today recommends. Healing can happen in small moments, whether it’s through sharing what’s on your mind or sitting in silence. Acts of connection can have a profound impact, allowing you to realize you are not alone.
The Path Forward After Loss
Navigating collective trauma can be painful, however, there is a way forward. Directing your attention to carrying out smaller actions can help ground you in uncertain times. Through paying attention to what you can control, you can begin to rebuild hope.
Remember, grief and resilience can exist simultaneously. Just as you may experience overwhelm while navigating challenging times, your grief can be a source of compassion for yourself and your community, fostering personal and communal healing.
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