Going through the death of a loved one is a very difficult time, but things have changed since social media has become popular. Only a few years ago, people would try to be private during the death of a dear one, requesting that others respect their privacy. Now, many people turn to social media during times like these to mourn the death. They are very open about how they are feeling, which can actually help people heal more quickly. It is interesting how the mourning process has changed for many people. While social media hasn't made the loss of a loved one any easier, it has made it easier to have that sense of community. There are many ways this can be of benefit to someone who is mourning the death of a family member or close friend.
Someone to Talk To
Before social media, people didn't always know when someone had lost a loved one. Even twenty years ago, texting wasn't common, most people didn't have access to the internet, and things like Facebook and Twitter didn't exist yet. Now, people can find out in moments when someone has passed away. This can make it much easier for friends to reach out to those who are going through a loss, to offer an ear, to give a hug, or just to be there while someone cries. While this may seem like not a big deal, it can make the person who is hurting feel much more taken care of, which can help make the grieving process less lonely.
Arrange for Meals
It is pretty customary for people to bring meals when someone is going through a major life event, such as the death of a loved one. Before, most people would typically bring their meal to the funeral or to the dinner following the funeral. In those days, it was casseroles galore. Nowadays, there are websites that are specially set up to arrange meals, so people can sign up for a day and bring a fresh meal to the grieving person that night. This helps keep the family of the departed from having to cook their own food or arrange for food delivery.
Spread the Word
Another way social media has helped with the mourning process is it helps spread information about memorial services and funerals quickly. All someone has to do is write a post, and that post has the potential to reach hundreds or even thousands of people in a matter of minutes. You can also share things like burial information as well as the obituary.
Pay Tribute
Have you ever gone years without knowing someone from your high school died, only to find out by chance? Those days are becoming fewer and more far between thanks to social media. Even when you haven't spoken with someone in several years, it can be hard when that person passes away. It can be even more difficult if he or she has been gone for a while and you didn't even know it. With social media, this doesn't happen very often anymore. People are able to find out pretty quickly when someone has passed away unexpectedly.
It Benefits Those With a Terminal Illness
Not only can the social media age be of great benefit for those who have lost a loved one, it can be helpful for those who know they are going to die soon. It can help them in several ways:
- Social media can allow them to share their updates with family members and friends more easily.
- The person can find a community of people who are going through the same illness.
- He or she can do research to find out ways to make the suffering a little bit easier.
Social media has changed the world, and it hasn't always been a good thing. However, it seems to be a positive way to express grief and share with others during the mourning process.
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