Dos and don’ts for posting about death on social media

Grieving brings us together through healing and reconnecting even when it must be virtual. We all knew that death and grieving go on when in-person funeral services are not possible. The pandemic highlighted the digital ways to say goodbye, including how posting about death on social media isn’t unusual and can still bring some comfort.

The informal nature of social media makes it more socially acceptable to talk about death. However, it’s a good idea to be a little more formal than you might normally be when sharing your thoughts or condolences on social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

We’ve assembled some dos and don’ts related to posting on social media about death, so you don’t add to a mourning family’s discomfort or sorrow.

Do consider the family of the deceased first

You were one of the first to get the news of a death via a call or text, but that is not an invitation to publicly post about it on your social channels. If you’re not the one writing and sending the obituary, you probably shouldn’t be the  one breaking the news on Facebook.

The devastating loss of a loved one is hard enough. Don’t make it worse by announcing a death when it isn’t your place. If you’re struggling with grief and need to share or relieve it, talk to family members or friends. Then you’re not running the risk of hurting feelings or creating negative situations.

It’s common to see memorial pages on social media channels, or even maintaining the Facebook page of someone who has passed as a memorial. Memorials like these offer a way to share your remembrance with others, and connect with family and friends around common grief.

Do be respectful with your post

You may have had a playful relationship full of bawdy stories, but this is not the time or place to reminisce and share those. Anyone who knew your friend will see these public posts, so be mindful that you’re not causing duress to others with a potentially shocking story or shared private details. Remember, there is a difference between private and personal.

Don’t include too many personal details

With the above in mind, it’s also best not to go into detail about how someone died or to ask questions surrounding the cause or circumstances of the death. Yes, you may be curious about what happened if the death is unexpected, but those details can come via a one-on-one conversation with someone who shares only what’s necessary to know.

Don’t “check in” or tag yourself or others at a funeral

This should go without inclusion, but we’ve seen people check in and post selfies from places or occasions of a sensitive nature. Your contacts don’t need to know where you are or to see a photo of you constantly, especially if you’re attending a wake or a funeral. Remember, everything that you do on social media has an effect larger than you originally grasp, especially where death and grieving is concerned.

Do make plans for your existing social media accounts

While this isn’t a do related to posting about someone’s death, it’s a good idea to plan for what happens to your online account information when you die. We have an online resource that talks you through each step called Managing Digital Assets Upon Death. Download the resource here.