Coping with Loss - Media Impact

As a person grieves and eventually heals from a tragic loss, there will be times when a single thought or memory may trigger emotions of sadness and for a short time a reminder of the hurt will be again felt. This is normal and healing returns and life does go on. Anniversary dates of tragic events and special holidays are common times when this experience occurs.

What bothers me is seeing tragedies played and replayed over the media days, weeks, months, and years later. It is understandable that there is a significance around many tragic losses. I don't discount that. However, for the families left behind, it is difficult enough to heal only to have the tragedy brought back before their eyes and ears all over again. Breaking open the pain and suffering they so try to move past.

Here are some thoughts to ponder:

• At what point should the media back away; should every newscast reference a tragedy?
• At what point should photos of tragedy be set aside for something new or positive?
• Why is it that printed media sells better when there is something tragic on the front page?
• Does a person have to view tragic photos and hear tragic information to remember the significance that surrounds the tragedy?
• Do folks in the media feel that if they don't write or speak about something it somehow loses its importance or meaning?

I am not blasting media by any means. It is important to be informed about what is going on in the world around us.

I am just seeking understanding when, from a professional viewpoint and my understanding of grief and healing, I can see how it can negatively impact a person's ability to cope, heal and move on with life.

Related Topics:

• The Aftermath of Tragedy
• How Much is Too Much News?

Technorati Tags: grief, tragedy, media, news