Source: Photo by Kristin Meekhof The Las Vegas event is horrific for anyone to process let alone for those who lost loved ones. And while grief is not a new topic to the field of psychology or social work, the Las Vegas tragedy presents factors which could make the bereavement process more challenging for the bereaved.
6 ways that grief to the Las Vegas tragedy is unique:
1. There is nothing to compare the Las Vegas tragedy to in terms of having a frame of reference for the loss. Sometimes, people will talk about their grief with others and use a compare and contrast model. However, with the Las Vegas event one can't compare it to a similar event and expect others to relate to it. And for the bereaved, this can be an even more isolating experience since there are not many who can personally relate to it.
2. For many reasons, the Las Vegas tragedy is shocking to comprehend, and this can make grief harder to process. Las Vegas is a popular tourist destination and not one engulfed in violence. Many associate the Vegas Strip with fun and relaxation not horror. Trying to understand why someone would act in such a violent manner makes one heartsick. For the bereaved it adds a layer of complexity to their loss.
3. This tragedy carries political overtones about gun control, which can complicate one's mourning process. The bereaved may feel a political agenda is to blame. For example, the widows I spoke with whose husbands died in Vietnam said they did not feel comfortable showing their outward grief because of the politics surrounding their spouse's death.
4. When a loved one dies without a clear explanation of what happened, it can be difficult to sort through exactly what led up to their death. And the bereaved often want clear explanations as to what happened and why the death occurred. Confusion about the sequence of events that led to any tragedy, especially like the Vegas one, can lead to more questions and not answers.
5. The Vegas event is difficult for anyone to process because of the enormity of the it. And if someone lost their loved one, it can be overwhelming for both the mind and body to digest the loss as well as understand this act of violence.
6. The bereaved may feel their loss of safety is impacted and can be fearful to engage in travel or attend events that draw large crowds. They may experience signs of anxiety just anticipating having to attend events in major cities. And if they were visiting the area the fear of safety may add stress about coming back to this place around the anniversary of their loved one's death.
It is important to remember that no two people grieve in the same way. And healing can begin with providing tangible support to the bereaved. Don't be afraid to reach out and hug them. Don't recoil when the bereaved walk into a room. The bereaved are often enveloped in fear and reaching out to them can with a kind gesture can let them know that goodness still exits. Also, seeking professional help is often warranted for the bereaved, those helping the bereaved, and those who witnessed the tragedy.
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