Red flags & when to go in person for Grief & Bereavement Support

Audience: adult

Grief and bereavement are natural responses to losing someone important. Many people find comfort and support through telemedicine, which offers access to counseling and guidance from home. However, some signs suggest that in-person care may be needed to ensure safety and proper support. These include thoughts of harming yourself or others, intense feelings that interfere with daily life for a long time, or sudden changes in behavior. Telemedicine can help with emotional support, coping strategies, and connecting you to resources. This guide helps you recognize when to seek in-person help and how telemedicine fits into your grief journey. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for emergency or specialized care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Thoughts of harming yourself or others — seek emergency in-person care immediately.
• Inability to perform daily self-care or severe withdrawal from social contact lasting weeks — arrange prompt in-person evaluation.
• Persistent hopelessness or intense grief interfering with functioning for more than several weeks — consult a healthcare provider in person.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing emotional support and counseling for grief.
• Teaching coping strategies and stress management techniques.
• Connecting patients to community resources and support groups.
• Monitoring symptoms and offering follow-up guidance.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Managing emergencies such as suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
• Diagnosing or treating complicated grief disorders requiring specialized care.
• Performing physical examinations or urgent medical assessments.
• Administering medications or interventions that require in-person visits.

Understanding Grief and Bereavement

Grief is the emotional pain you feel after losing someone close. Bereavement is the period of mourning and adjustment after a loss. Everyone experiences grief differently. It can include sadness, anger, confusion, or numbness. These feelings often come in waves and change over time. Support from friends, family, or professionals can help you cope.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine offers a way to talk with counselors or support groups from your home. It can help you learn coping skills, express your feelings, and find community support. Many people find it convenient and comforting to access help this way, especially if they have difficulty traveling or prefer privacy.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Sometimes grief can become overwhelming or complicated. You should seek in-person care if you experience:

In these cases, professional evaluation and support in person are important for your safety and recovery.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your session:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, quiet space for your telemedicine session.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to stable internet.
• Prepare a list of your feelings, symptoms, and any questions you want to discuss.
• Inform a trusted friend or family member about your appointment for support.
• Familiarize yourself with the telemedicine platform or app to avoid technical issues.

After your tele-visit

• Rest and take time to process your feelings after the session.
• Practice any coping strategies or exercises suggested by your provider.
• Stay connected with friends, family, or support groups for ongoing support.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person appointments as recommended.
• Seek immediate in-person help if you experience worsening symptoms or safety concerns.

FAQs

Can telemedicine replace in-person grief counseling?

Telemedicine can provide valuable support and counseling for grief, especially when in-person visits are difficult. However, it may not fully replace the benefits of face-to-face care, especially in complex or emergency situations.

What should I do if I feel overwhelmed between telemedicine sessions?

If you feel overwhelmed, try reaching out to trusted friends or family. Use coping strategies taught during your sessions. If you experience thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek emergency in-person care immediately.

How long does grief support usually last?

Grief support varies for each person. Some may need only a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing support over months. Your provider can help determine what is best for you.

Is it safe to discuss sensitive feelings over telemedicine?

Yes, telemedicine platforms are designed to be secure and confidential. Find a private space to talk openly. If you have concerns about privacy, discuss them with your provider.

Sources

1. Grief: Coping with the loss of your loved one — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Bereavement and Grief — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Coping with Grief and Loss — Mayo Clinic.
4. Complicated Grief — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you experience any emergency symptoms or red flags, seek immediate in-person care.