How does the death of the Queen impact our mental health? Furthermore, is it normal to feel so much mental pain? Well, let’s talk about it.
Before Queen Elizabeth II’s sad passing on September 8th, 2022, the world somehow felt anchored. She served as a symbol of strength and constant reassurance for millions. And it’s no wonder. After taking the throne of England in 1952, she was arguably a voice of calm and reason for not only the UK, but for many parts of the world. She was an amazing global anchor point.
Now, as her majesty lies in state, hundreds of thousands wait to pay their last respects. While millions more mourn her passing all over the world.
So, upon hearing the news, I couldn’t help but ask myself, “How will her passing impact the mental health of a world without Queen Elizabeth II? Moreover, what does the end of her rein do to people who are living in such troubling times?
Well, if I were to guess, I would have to say the world feels a little more fragile than it did on September the 7th. So, it’s impacted significantly.
Facts about Queen Elizabeth II
While we may not think of famous people on a daily basis, they are still in the background of our consciousness. Similarly, we tend to underestimate the significance of their presence. In the case of the Queen, she has reigned for so long, it was hard to fathom a world without her.
Therefore, her death will inevitably have an impact on the mental health of her subjects and beyond. With that said, many people may find themselves saying, “I don’t know why I am so devastated by her death, it’s not like I knew her.” While more still will close the door to their bedrooms and mourn her exit with tears and darkness.
But is this normal? Should we fall into a state of depression because someone famous died? The answer is, absolutely! Think about it. A person who is so woven into the fabric of our world is no longer here, and it’s painful.
For instance, think of that time your favorite singer or actor passed. I bet you were devastated weren’t you? We form attachments to people for a variety of reasons. Take music for an example – we have such an intimate connection with it, we form a bond with those who write, produce, and sing it.
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In other words, the more of a connection we have to something, the greater the loss when we lose its source. I.e., those who influence us with it.
For example, I was thrown into a deep depression for a long time after my idol (singer) died. In short, you have lost a very real part of you.
And for millions, Queen Elizebeth was no different. Her addresses were inspiring in a way that only a gifted leader such as herself could deliver. Moreover, her constant presence almost gave us a sense that she was immortal. No wonder, she’s met with some of history’s most influential figures. World leaders like Winston Churchill (1940) and President John F Kennedy (1960). And just days before her passing, she appointed Elizabeth Truss as UK’s newest Prime Minister.
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So, when a figurehead like that of the Queen passes, many under her monarchy have lived and died. In other words, she’s all they’ve ever known. She’s been their rock and sense of hope for a better future all their lives.
Please know that if you are finding yourself consumed by grief and depression over her death, its normal. And by all means, give yourself permission to feel the way you do. She was an important figure in our lives, a consistent force in a world so unjust. We shall grieve her Majesty the Queen’s death for many years to come, and that’s okay.
Just one of the Queen’s inspiring addresses.
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The Passing of the Queen, Copyright, 2022
