It is with great sadness that we have heard the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of East London NHS Foundation Trust, we extend our sincere condolences to the Royal family.
Queen Elizabeth gave long and distinguished service to the country and was widely respected and admired by people everywhere.
We join with the country and the world in this period of mourning as we remember an outstanding monarch who gave so much.
Processing the Sad News
News of the death of Queen Elizabeth will affect people in different ways.
Some may not feel greatly affected by it. Others may feel it more deeply. It may remind them of previous losses and bereavements and bring back the feelings associated with those events.
Respect and Kindness
Whatever your emotional response is or the response of those around you, treating people respectfully and with kindness is paramount.
We are all different. Some will feel the need to make contact with others to talk about what has happened.
Others may want to have some quiet time to reflect on their feelings.
Following the radio or tv could be comforting to connect with the mood of the wider public. But it is important to take stock of your own emotional state and decide if you need to take a break from broadcast media.
Think about what would be most helpful to you - to see a friend for a cuppa, make a call to someone, listen to music or go for a walk and get some fresh air - whatever helps your emotional balance.
If you know that someone in your circle will be upset and affected by these events, reach out. If possible, make a plan to meet up or have phone call. Letting them talk about their feelings and thoughts with interaction from you will be helpful.
It is a normal response to feel heavy-hearted at the loss of a public figure, especially one who has been in the media for most of our lifetime. We feel we know them and are saddened that they are no longer there. So make the most of opportunities to come together with others in your community such as at faith events, sign a book of remembrance or join with others in placing flowers at an agreed location.
Our IAPT services can help if you need further support later down the line: