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Rahman MA, Islam MR, Chowdhury M, Asaduzzaman M, Barua P, Haque MA. Impact of COVID-19 on celebration of death, mortuary, and funerary customs in Bangladesh: A qualitative study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30369. [PMID: 38720756 PMCID: PMC11076953 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction During the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions significantly impacted religious activities related to death celebrations, mortuary practices, and funerary rituals in Bangladesh. Bereaved families faced a harsh reality, unable to perform the full rituals for their loved ones due to the pandemic outbreak. This study explores the adjustments and modifications made in cultural rituals and how they affected bereaved families and close relatives. Objective This study aims to explore how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the observance of death rituals in Bangladesh and the effects on bereaved families and close relatives. Methods This study employed a qualitative approach and gathered data through 3 key informant interviews (KIIs) and 58 in-depth interviews (IDIs) conducted between December 2020 and January 2021. Purposive sampling was employed to recruit participants from three distinct groups: (1) individuals who had experienced the death of a relative during the pandemic, (2) caregivers who provided support to those experiencing loss, and (3) volunteers actively involved with funeral and burial services. This selection strategy ensured a diverse range of perspectives on the impact of the pandemic on death rituals. Results The pandemic forced people to observe funerals or make significant sacrifices to traditional practices reluctantly. Disruptions to long-standing traditions and widespread emotional toll were as various segments of society struggled to find closure in saying goodbye to loved ones. Due to the severity of the pandemic, people became heavily reliant on priests, crematorium workers, and funeral volunteers for mortuary services. Both Hindu and Muslim religions discouraged family gatherings during post-burial rituals. The fear of contracting the virus further limited bereaved families' ability to bid farewell to their deceased loved ones properly. Conclusion This research highlights the profound impact of the pandemic on death rituals and the resulting emotional distress for bereaved families in Bangladesh. The findings are pivotal in guiding the development of concrete policies for future pandemic preparedness and response. Such policies might encompass guidelines for safe and culturally sensitive mortuary practices, psychosocial support and grief counseling initiatives for affected communities, and strategies to mitigate religious anxieties during public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abdur Rahman
- Department of Anthropology, Comilla University, Cumilla, 3500, Bangladesh
| | - Md Redwanul Islam
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Shahbag, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Monidipa Chowdhury
- Department of Anthropology, Comilla University, Cumilla, 3500, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Asaduzzaman
- Department of Anthropology, Comilla University, Cumilla, 3500, Bangladesh
| | - Proloy Barua
- BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD), BRAC University, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - M Atiqul Haque
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Shahbag, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
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Akmese I, Foreman T, Brooks G. Bereavement During and Not During the Pandemic in Terms of Complicated Grief and Social Support. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024:302228241240944. [PMID: 38502887 DOI: 10.1177/00302228241240944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Mandated measures to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus (e.g., social distancing and travel restrictions) led to isolation and reshaped the dying process as well as grief rituals for loved ones of deceased individuals due to COVID-19 and other causes of death. The purpose of this study was to investigate the difference between those who lost a loved one during and not during the global pandemic in terms of complicated grief and perceived social support. A cross-sectional quantitative approach was employed, surveying 580 individuals, all of whom had experienced the loss of a loved one. Our findings suggest that bereavement during the COVID-19 era uniquely intensified the Complicated Grief experience. However, the perceived social support did not vary based on the timing of the bereavement. The strengths, limitations, and future research directions are further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Akmese
- Department of Counseling and Higher Education, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Tamarine Foreman
- Department of Counseling and Higher Education, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Gordon Brooks
- Department of Educational Studies, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
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Costeira C, Dixe MA, Querido A, Rocha A, Vitorino J, Santos C, Laranjeira C. Death Unpreparedness Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Concept Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:188. [PMID: 38255076 PMCID: PMC10815185 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic imposed changes upon the capacity of healthcare systems, with significant repercussions on healthcare provision, particularly at end-of-life. This study aims to analyze the concept map of death unpreparedness due to the COVID-19 pandemic, capturing the relationships among the attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical indicators. Walker and Avant's method was used to guide an analysis of this concept. A literature search was performed systematically, between May 2022 and August 2023, using the following electronic databases on the Elton Bryson Stephens Company (EBSCO) host platform: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), Psychological Information Database (PsycINFO), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) Complete, Cochrane Library, and Nursing and Allied Health Collection. Thirty-four articles were retrieved. The unexpected and unpredictable impositions associated with inexperience and unskillfulness in dealing with COVID-19 configured challenges for healthcare professionals, family/caregivers, and even the dying person. Nine key attributes emerged in three main domains: (1) Individual: (a) disease-related conditions, (b) separation distress, and (c) scarcity of death and grief literacy; (2) Relational: (a) Dying alone, (b) poor communication, and (c) existential issues; and (3) Contextual: (a) disrupted collective mourning and grieving, (b) disrupted compassionate care and, (c) pandemic social stigma. This study contributed a full definition of death unpreparedness in a global pandemic scenario such as COVID-19. In this sense, feeling unprepared or unready for death brought new challenges to the bioecological resources of those affected. It is essential to embrace strategies capable of providing emotional and spiritual support in the dying process and to respect patient wishes. The lessons learned from COVID-19 should be applied to events with a comparable impact to minimize their consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Costeira
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
- The Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA:E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3004-011 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Anjos Dixe
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
| | - Ana Querido
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), NursID, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Rocha
- Nursing School of Coimbra, Avenida Bissaya Barreto s/n, 3004-011 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Joel Vitorino
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
- Palliative Care Unit, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cátia Santos
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
| | - Carlos Laranjeira
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Rua de Santo André-66-68, Campus 5, 13 Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; (M.A.D.); (A.Q.); (C.S.)
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2—Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro—Apart. 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal;
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7000-801 Évora, Portugal
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Nierop-van Baalen CA, Witkamp FE, Korfage IJ, Pasman HR, Becqué YN, Zee MS, van der Heide A, Onwuteaka-hilipsen BD, Goossensen A. Relatives' grief at three moments after death of a loved one during COVID-19 pandemic (the CO-LIVE study). DEATH STUDIES 2023; 48:927-936. [PMID: 38145418 PMCID: PMC11371258 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2297055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 has complicated grieving experiences. Rich qualitative description of these experiences is lacking. We interviewed 10 bereaved relatives (mainly daughters) 2-3 times each: shortly after their relative died in the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic, and after 12 and 18 months (29 interviews in total). Analyses took place according to inductive content analysis. Losses were threefold: the loss of the loved one; of the (desired) way to say farewell, and of social support. We identified five ways in which the three COVID-19 related loss experiences interacted: overshadowed grief, cumulative grief, triggered grief, derailed grief, and conciliatory grief. This study demonstrated that pre-COVID-19 diagnoses and understandings of grief are not sufficient to picture grief during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. These grief experiences are more complex and deserve further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - F. Erica Witkamp
- Research Centre Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ida J. Korfage
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H. Roeline Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne N. Becqué
- Research Centre Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Masha S. Zee
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van der Heide
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje D. Onwuteaka-hilipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Najafi F, Mardanian Dehkordi L, Khodayari S, Jaafarpour M, Nasrabadi AN. Nurses' bereavement experiences of a deceased colleague due to COVID-19: A phenomenological study. Nurs Open 2023; 10:7233-7243. [PMID: 37608498 PMCID: PMC10563403 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.1976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Healthcare workers have little time to mourn due to the intensification of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although grief is a normal part of life and death, the circumstances surrounding the death can affect the grieving process. So far, the nurses' experience in mourn for a deceased colleague in the COVID-19 pandemic has not been determined. Identifying these experiences can provide opportunities to formulate appropriate strategies to functionally adapt to death and promote mental health and well-being during this crisis. This study aimed to understand the nurses' experiences in mourning for a deceased colleague due to COVID-19. DESIGN This was an interpretive phenomenological study. METHOD Participants included 10 nurses with the bereavement experience following the death of a colleague due to COVID-19, who were selected through purposive sampling, and the data were collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews and analysed using Diekelmann et al.'s (1989) approach. RESULTS The nurses' bereavement experiences were in the form of eight themes: disbelief and amazement, acceptance with grief, lasting sadness, unsung laments, bringing back memories, impulse to leave the service, a professional myth and holy death. For nurses, mourning for the death of a colleague due to COVID-19 is like a lasting sadness that begins with disbelief and amazement and changes to acceptance with sadness. From the fellow nurses' point of view, this type of death was perceived as a holy death, which along with countless unsung laments and memories brought to us the association of a professional legend, and that such a fate would be inevitable for us as well, it was a push to leave the service. PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Crisis managers and policymakers need to add protocols and training programs for resilience skills and healthy mourning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Najafi
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and MidwiferyIlam University of Medical SciencesIlamIran
| | | | - Sajad Khodayari
- Department of Critical Care Nursing, School of Nursing and MidwiferyTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Molouk Jaafarpour
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing and MidwiferyIlam University of Medical SciencesIlamIran
| | - Alireza Nikbakht Nasrabadi
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and MidwiferyTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
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Kulkarni A, Salave M, Deuskar M. Journeying Apart: Exploring Informal Caregiver Experiences and Unmet Closures in Caring for COVID-19 Deceased. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231206512. [PMID: 37844259 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231206512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The current study investigates the experiences and expectations of informal caregivers who lost their loved ones to the COVID-19 virus. The unusual circumstances of the deaths including physical isolation from their loved ones during the final hours before death significantly impacted their grieving process. In this interpretative phenomenological study, caregivers' experiences are explored through the lens of grief models and Gestalt perspectives. By thematic coding, seven superordinate themes emerged: Inability to accept death, Unfair nature of death, Helplessness, Regret and self-blame, Shattering of assumptive world, Using work as a distraction and Lack of government facilities. The findings of this study suggest that a significant number of informal caregivers continue suffering through the distress caused by the death of their loved ones in the pandemic, highlighting the need for grief counselling interventions for such bereaved informal caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manasi Salave
- Department of Psychology, Fergusson College, Pune, India
| | - Megha Deuskar
- Department of Psychology, Fergusson College, Pune, India
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7
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Tarabeih M, Marey-Sarwan I, Awawdi K. 'I Prefer To Die at Home With Dignity': Perceptions of Death Rituals Among Religious Muslim Kidney and Liver Transplant Patients With COVID-19. Transplant Proc 2023; 55:1843-1852. [PMID: 37173262 PMCID: PMC10110931 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2023.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kidney and liver transplant recipients may be at a high risk of contracting acute COVID-19 due to chronic immunosuppression and comorbidities. These patients receive combinations of immunosuppressive drugs, altering their innate and adaptive immunity, thus, rendering them more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections and higher mortality. Kidney and liver transplant recipients frequently exhibit one or several risk factors, increasing the risk for unfavorable outcomes. METHODS This qualitative study explores perceptions of religious rituals and practices relating to COVID-19 deaths among Muslim kidney and liver transplant recipients during the first, second, third, and fourth waves, focusing on their tendency to unlawfully refuse to be hospitalized due to their objection to certain guidelines that prevent or restrict religious practices and traditions. A qualitative study based on interviews with 35 older, religious Muslim liver and kidney transplant recipients was conducted face-to-face and on Zoom. RESULTS Our findings indicated the absence of acceptable and respectful death rites for the deceased in the event of death from COVID-19, spurring the refusal of older, religious Muslim transplant recipients in Israel to be hospitalized after contracting COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS To address these concerns, health authorities and religious leaders must collaborate to find solutions that satisfy the requirements of both the health system and the religious Muslim community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Tarabeih
- The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Ibtisam Marey-Sarwan
- Sakhnin Academic College for Teacher Education and the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Israel
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Mergenova G, Rosenthal SL, Myrkassymova A, Bukharbayeva A, Iskakova B, Izekenova A, Izekenova A, Alekesheva L, Yerdenova M, Karibayev K, Zhussupov B, Alimbekova G, Davis A. The COVID-19 pandemic and mental health in Kazakhstan. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2023; 10:e52. [PMID: 37854418 PMCID: PMC10579662 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2023.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had significant impacts on mental health. We examined factors associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kazakhstan. We surveyed 991 adults in Kazakhstan in July 2021 using multistage stratified sampling. Depression and anxiety were measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire-4. We conducted logistic regression to assess associations between depression and anxiety and sociobehavioral factors. Overall, 12.01% reported depressive symptoms and 8.38% anxiety. Higher likelihood of depression was associated with being female (AOR: 1.64; 95% CI [1.05, 2.55]), having experience with COVID-19 in the social environment (AOR: 1.85; 95% CI [1.1-3.14]), experiencing food insecurity (AOR: 1.80; 95% CI [1.11-2.89]), increased family conflict (AOR: 2.43; 95% CI [1.32-4.48]) and impaired healthcare access (AOR: 2.41; 95% CI [1.32-4.41]). Higher likelihood of anxiety was associated with being female (AOR: 3.43; 95% CI [1.91-6.15]), increased family conflict (AOR: 2.22; 95% CI [1.11-4.44]) and impaired healthcare access (AOR: 2.63; 95% CI [1.36-5.12]). Multiple factors were associated with mental health in Kazakhstan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is needed to determine the extent to which these factors and their associated mental health outcomes may persist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaukhar Mergenova
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Susan L. Rosenthal
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Balnur Iskakova
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | | | - Assel Izekenova
- Kenzhegali Sagadiyev University of International Business, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | | | - Maral Yerdenova
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | | | | | | | - Alissa Davis
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
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Marinaci T, Venuleo C, Rollo S, Ferrante L, Semeraro CG, Infurna MR, Nogueira DCOA. Supporting bereaved people: a qualitative study on the experience of informal support providers, before and during the pandemic scenario. DEATH STUDIES 2023; 48:250-266. [PMID: 37226959 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2216172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak has further highlighted the need to strengthen support networks to sustain grieving people. However, we know very little about the experience of those who, because of their emotional connection with the bereaved person or of their social function, find themselves supporting people in grief. The current study aimed to analyze the experience of grievers' informal support providers (relatives and friends, teachers, religious leaders, funeral providers, pharmacists, volunteers, and social service workers). 162 in-depth interviews were collected (meanage = 42.3, SD = 14.9; women = 63.6%). Findings highlight two different ways of talking about one's experience and two different ways of offering support. Such dissimilarities do not relate to the period in which support was offered (before or during the pandemic). The results will be discussed in order to highlight emerging training needs to support bereaved people in their difficult transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Marinaci
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Claudia Venuleo
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Simone Rollo
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Ferrante
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | | | - Maria Rita Infurna
- Department of Psychological, Educational, Physical Exercise and Training Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Sera Jose KMC, Navarro AJ, Pomida AN, Hechanova-Alampay MR. Bereaved in Me: Understanding the Vicarious Grief Experiences Among Helping Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228221150870. [PMID: 36636856 PMCID: PMC9841206 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221150870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Literature on the experience of the bereaved during the COVID-19 pandemic suggests how complicated it has been for those who lost loved ones. However, the sense of grief experienced by those who journey with them is relatively unexplored. The present study examines vicarious experiences of grief of healthcare workers, faith-based workers and mental health workers who worked with the bereaved due to COVID-19 deaths. The study was done in two phases. In the first phase, a survey showed that compared to other helping professionals, healthcare workers reported the highest levels of vicarious grief. In the second phase, in-depth interviews revealed five themes: acknowledging contexts of grief, navigating relations with the bereaved, sharing others' grief, internalizing encounters, and negotiating challenges. Findings highlight the need for supportive interventions at the organizational level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Angelo Nico Pomida
- Department of Psychology, Ateneo de Manila
University, Quezon City, Philippines
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11
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Hanauer C, Telaar B, Al-Dawaf N, Rosner R, Doering BK. 'Feeling disconnected' - risk factors for PGD and themes in grief counselling during the COVID-19 pandemic. A mixed-method study. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2183006. [PMID: 36912798 PMCID: PMC10013402 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2183006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Due to its high death toll and measures to curb the pandemic, COVID-19 has affected grieving experiences and may contribute to risk factors for Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD). Persons at risk for PGD often seek support from grief counselling.Objective: To explore whether pandemic-associated risk factors have become more important topics in counselling in a mixed-method design.Method: German grief counsellors (n = 93) rated whether pre-defined risk factors had become more important in grief counselling and indicated additional important themes in an open format.Results: The counsellors indicated that all pre-defined risk factors had become more important, though differing significantly in their frequency. Most frequently endorsed risk factors were lack of social support, limited possibilities to accompany a dying loved one and absence of traditional grief rituals. Qualitative analysis identified three additional themes: the societal impact of the pandemic, its impact on bereavement support and health care, and a chance for personal growth.Conclusions: The pandemic has affected bereavement experiences and grief counselling. Counsellors should monitor grief processes and specific risk factors to provide the best possible care for bereaved people when needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Hanauer
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Eichstaett, Germany
| | - Berit Telaar
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Eichstaett, Germany
| | - Nadja Al-Dawaf
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Eichstaett, Germany
| | - Rita Rosner
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Eichstaett, Germany
| | - Bettina K Doering
- Clinical Psychology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
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van Schaik T, Brouwer MA, Knibbe NE, Knibbe HJJ, Teunissen SCCM. The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Grief Experiences of Bereaved Relatives: An Overview Review. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221143861. [PMID: 36453639 PMCID: PMC9720061 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221143861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted grief experiences of bereaved relatives and altered accustomed ways of coping with loss. To understand how bereaved relatives experienced grief during COVID-19, a review, using the overview method, was conducted. An overview of empirical data about this subject has been lacking and therefore, PubMed and CINAHL databases were searched for empirical studies published from January 1, 2020 until December 31, 2021. 28 articles were included in the review. Thematic analysis showed different emotional responses, changes in grief, the effect of absence during final moments, a lack of involvement in the caring process, the impact on communities and social support systems and the alteration of funerals among bereaved relatives. During COVID-19, death is characterized by poor bereavement outcomes and health implications, but bereaved also show signs of resilience and coping. Directions for future research about cultural and societal differences in grief and support methods are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara van Schaik
- Julius Center for Health Sciences
and Primary Care, University Medical Center
Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marije A. Brouwer
- Julius Center for Health Sciences
and Primary Care, University Medical Center
Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Saskia C. C. M. Teunissen
- Julius Center for Health Sciences
and Primary Care, University Medical Center
Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Van Denend J, Ford K, Berg P, Edens EL, Cooke J. The Body, the Mind, and the Spirit: Including the Spiritual Domain in Mental Health Care. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2022; 61:3571-3588. [PMID: 35852727 PMCID: PMC9294786 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-022-01609-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This article supports the expansion of Engel's (Science (AAAS) 196(4286):129-136, 1977) biopsychosocial model into a biopsychosocial-spiritual model, as Sulmasy (The Gerontologist 42(5):24-33, 2002) and others have suggested. It utilizes case studies to describe five areas of clinical work within mental health (religious grandiosity, depression and grief, demoralization and suicidality, moral injury, and opioid use disorder) with emerging evidence for the inclusion of the spiritual domain in addition to the biological, psychological, and social. For each clinical area, an underutilization of the spiritual domain is compared with a more developed and integrated use. An argument is made for continuing to develop, understand, and utilize a biopsychosocial-spiritual model in mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Van Denend
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA.
| | - Kayla Ford
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Pauline Berg
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Ellen L Edens
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - James Cooke
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
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14
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Velasco PF, Perroy B, Gurchani U, Casati R. Lost in pandemic time: a phenomenological analysis of temporal disorientation during the Covid-19 crisis. PHENOMENOLOGY AND THE COGNITIVE SCIENCES 2022; 22:1-24. [PMID: 36093287 PMCID: PMC9438866 DOI: 10.1007/s11097-022-09847-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
People have experienced many forms of temporal disorientation during the Covid-19 crisis. For this study, we collected a rich corpus of reports on the multifaceted experiences of disorientation during the pandemic. In this paper, we study the resulting corpus using a descriptive approach. We identify six emerging themes: temporal rift; temporal vertigo; impoverished time; tunnel vision; spatial and social scaffolding of time; suspended time. We offer a phenomenological analysis of each of the themes. Based on the phenomenological analysis, we draw a key distinction between episodic and existential forms of temporal disorientation, and we argue that the Covid-19 crisis is best conceptualised as a period of suspended time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Umer Gurchani
- Institut Jean Nicod (ENS, EHESS, CNRS), Paris, France
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15
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Willis KD, Rao SR, Normen M, de Groot J, Calman L, Bahcivan O, Centeno I, Fehon DC. Same storm, different boat: The global impact of COVID-19 on palliative care. Psychooncology 2022; 32:148-154. [PMID: 35793431 PMCID: PMC9350379 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic has had a complex and profound impact on the provision of palliative care globally. To support learning from palliative care providers and researchers worldwide, the Education Subcommittee of International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) Palliative Care Special Interest Group developed a webinar with presentations by and discussion with eight international palliative care leaders. METHODS Presentations were content rich; the speakers used both quantitative (e.g., sharing recent statistical findings) and qualitative (e.g., narrative storytelling, anecdotal experiences) approaches to portray the effect of COVID-19 in their region. Subsequent to the webinar, the committee collectively identified five themes conveyed by the presenters through consensus. RESULTS The themes included: (1) altered accessibility to palliative care, with socio-economic status impacting virtual health availability; (2) reduced opportunities to preserve dignity, as survival has been prioritized over preserving the humanity of patients and their loved ones; (3) complicated grief and bereavement arising from social distancing requirements; (4) greater awareness of the importance of sustaining health provider well-being; and (5) the development of valuable innovations across nations, institutions, disciplines, and communities. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the webinar facilitated valuable connection for global learning and identified opportunities for research and clinical interventions. In an ongoing crisis that has exacerbated isolation, we will need to continue to learn and lean on one another as a global community to navigate ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelcie D. Willis
- Department of PsychologyVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA,Massey Cancer CenterVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | - Seema Rajesh Rao
- Department of Research & EducationBangalore Hospice Trust—KarunashrayaBangaloreIndia
| | - Michelle Normen
- Department of Research & EducationBangalore Hospice Trust—KarunashrayaBangaloreIndia
| | - Janet de Groot
- Departments of Psychiatry and OncologyCumming School of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Lynn Calman
- School of Health SciencesCentre for Psychosocial Research in CancerUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
| | - Ozan Bahcivan
- Psiko‐Onkologlar Dernegi (Psycho‐Oncological Association)IzmirTurkiye,Ozel Oz Psikoloji Aile Danisma Merkezi (Oz Psychology Family Counselling Centre)IzmirTurkiye
| | - Isabel Centeno
- Breast Cancer CenterHospital Zambrano HellionMonterreyMexico
| | - Dwain C. Fehon
- Department of PsychiatryYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA,Smilow Cancer HospitalNew HavenConnecticutUSA
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16
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Cherblanc J, Zech E, Gauthier G, Verdon C, Simard C, Bergeron-Leclerc C, Grenier J, Maltais D, Cadell S, Sani L, Bacqué MF. Sociographie des ritualités funéraires en temps de pandémie: des rites empêchés aux rites appropriés. CANADIAN REVIEW OF SOCIOLOGY = REVUE CANADIENNE DE SOCIOLOGIE 2022; 59:348-368. [PMID: 35713006 DOI: 10.1111/cars.12390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 has led to unprecedented health and social measures in several countries, including major restrictions on funeral rituals. These restrictions concerned pre-mortem, peri-mortem and post-mortem rites. Based on a longitudinal study of 955 French-speaking Canadians bereaved of a loved one during the pandemic, this article describes the reality of these impediments. Through an analysis of the quantitative and qualitative data collected, it is possible to identify the gap between desired and realized funeral rituals during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results show important hindrances to the various desired rituals, yet some ritual and symbolic creativity by the bereaved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Cherblanc
- Département des sciences humaines et sociales, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, Québec, Canada
| | - Emmanuelle Zech
- Institut de recherche en sciences psychologiques, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgique
| | - Geneviève Gauthier
- Département des sciences humaines et sociales, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, Québec, Canada
| | - Chantal Verdon
- Département des sciences infirmières, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, Québec, Canada
| | - Chantale Simard
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Josée Grenier
- Département de travail social, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, Québec, Canada
| | - Danielle Maltais
- Département des sciences humaines et sociales, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, Québec, Canada
| | - Susan Cadell
- School of social work, University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Livia Sani
- Faculté de psychologie, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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17
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Nohesara S, Saeidi M, Mosavari H, Ghalichi L, Alebouyeh MR. Grief experience among ICU staff with loss of family members during COVID-19 outbreak in IRAN: A qualitative study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:904760. [PMID: 35923454 PMCID: PMC9339605 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.904760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 crisis created a lot of problems in people's lives. Different lifestyles, mental health, communication, rituals and traditions, particularly those involved in mourning, have changed drastically. Medical staff faced numerous critically ill patients every day. This greatly distressed the staff, especially the ICU staff. The end result was considerable amounts of mental distress for the medical staff who lost family members to COVID-19 making the distress even more complex. Methods We carried out this qualitative research to study the grief experiences of 12 Iranian ICU staff members at the Rasoul Akram Hospital who had experienced the loss of a family member to the COVID-19 pandemic. We studied the effects of how their own grief experience and how constant exposure to critically ill patients influenced their work with patients. All semi-structured interviews were held in the presence of a faculty member of the psychiatry department of Iran University of Medical Sciences. The interview on the grief experience among ICU staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, consists of 4 issues: Familiarity, Experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, Grieving the loss of a family member and Effects of parallel grief. Results We found five common themes in the result of the experiences of the participants based on content analysis. These consisted of: complex grieving process, new experiences for coping with loss, more empathy for patients, change the meaning of death, and the need for support in work places. Likewise, there were 22 sub themes. Conclusion Paying attention to the details of staff members' life, gender differences, and cultural aspects can give us a better understanding and perception of their grief experiences. This understanding brings out valuable points which can help policy makers pass better laws for the wellbeing of society and people in order to promote leadership in turbulent times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Nohesara
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Mental Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute (PHRI), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Saeidi
- Research Center for Addiction and Risky Behaviors, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hesam Mosavari
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Ghalichi
- Mental Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute (PHRI), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Alebouyeh
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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A Scoping Review of Interventions for Family Bereavement Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:bs12050155. [PMID: 35621452 PMCID: PMC9137947 DOI: 10.3390/bs12050155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The death of a loved one is a major stressor, and bereaved people are at a higher risk of negative health effects. This risk is higher during the COVID-19 pandemic, which raises the need for understanding existing bereavement support interventions. This scoping review aimed to map and summarize findings from the existing literature regarding bereavement support interventions (i.e., psychosocial and psychotherapeutic interventions) for family carers of people who died of COVID-19. The Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework was used. Five databases—Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science—were searched for articles available from the inception of COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020) to January 2022, following the PRISMA guidelines. Among the 990 studies identified, only seven met this study’s inclusion criteria. The analysis comprised three key topics: types of support programmes and bereavement interventions; tools used to measure the outcomes; and evidence of the impacts of the interventions. All studies analysed included interdisciplinary interventions, commonly developed in clinical settings. Support for recently bereaved individuals can entail cognitive behavioural therapy strategies and other tools to educate, guide, support, and promote healthy integration of loss. To mitigate the effects of non-normative family bereavement, we recommend a systematic approach and coordination between organizational settings, including access to informal and professional support, in order to find hope while navigating the aftermath of COVID-19.
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19
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Hinkson GM, Huggins CL, Doyle M. Transnational Caregiving and Grief: An Autobiographical Case Study of Loss and Love During the COVID-19 Pandemic. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221095689. [PMID: 35506350 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221095689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article examines grief while providing transnational caregiving during the COVID-19 pandemic. There are an estimated 275 million migrants living in their destination homeland which is 3.5% of the global population. The transnational family strives to maintain solidarity, intergenerational ties, and cultural values while sustaining family structure across international borders. Transnational caregiving is the exchange of support and care across distance and international borders. The devastating assault of COVID-19 on older adults impacted caregiving significantly, especially transnational caregiving. A qualitative case study method was selected to examine a participant's understanding and experience of transnational caregiving during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the interviews and writing of the narrative summary, five themes emerged related to transnational caregiving and COVID-related losses -exposure to sudden and unexpected death, isolation, guilt, loss and change of traditions, and lack of closure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenda M Hinkson
- 63051University of the Southern Caribbean, St. Joseph, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Camille L Huggins
- 37612University of the West Indies/St. Augustine, Saint Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Maya Doyle
- 3699Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT, USA
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20
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Gabay G, Tarabeih M. Death From COVID-19, Muslim Death Rituals and Disenfranchised Grief - A Patient-Centered Care Perspective. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221095717. [PMID: 35485141 PMCID: PMC9086202 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221095717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In Islam, religious directives regarding death are derived from the Quran and Islamic tradition, but there is a variety of death rituals and practices, lived by Muslims across contexts and geographies. This narrative study explored the dynamics of death and bereavement resulting from COVID-19 death among religious Muslims in Israel. Narrative interviews were conducted with 32 religious Muslims ages 73-85. Findings suggest several absent death rituals in COVID-19 deaths (i.e., the physical and spiritual purification of the body, the shrouding of the body, the funeral, and the will). Theoretically, this study linked death from COVID-19 with patient-centered care, highlighting disenfranchised grief due to the clash of health authority guidelines with religious death practices. Methodologically, this narrative study voices the perspectives of elder religious Muslims in Israel. Practically, this study suggests ways to implement the cultural perspective in COVID-19 deaths and enable a healthy bereavement process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillie Gabay
- Multi-Disciplinary Studies,
Achva
Academic College, Shikmim, Israel
| | - Mahdi Tarabeih
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Academic Collège
of Tel-Aviv Jaffa, Tel-Aviv,
Israel
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21
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Aguiar A, Pinto M, Duarte R. A qualitative study on the impact of death during COVID-19: Thoughts and feelings of Portuguese bereaved adults. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265284. [PMID: 35390013 PMCID: PMC8989352 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As a global threat, the COVID-19 pandemic has been an important factor in increasing death rate worldwide. As the virus spreads across international borders, it causes severe illness, death, and disruptions in our daily lives. Death and dying rituals and customs aid bereaved people in overcoming their grief. In this sense, the purpose of this study was to access thoughts and feelings of Portuguese adults and the impact of the loss in daily life during COVID-19. A structured online questionnaire was applied (snowball sampling) and qualitative data on death and mourning namely the impact of the loss in daily life, was collected. One hundred and sixty-six individuals have lost someone since the beginning of the pandemic and were included. Analysis was inspired by Braun and Clark's content analysis. Most participants were female (66.9%), the median age was of 37.3 years, and 70.5% had a high education degree. Moreover, 30.7% of the participants present anxiety symptoms and 10.2% depression symptoms. The answers of studied participants gave insights on the extent of the loss in day-to-day life and four thematic themes were found: (1) The perceived inadequacy of the funeral rituality, (2) Sadness, fear and loneliness, (3) Changes in sleeping and concentration and increased levels of anxiety and (4) Concerns regarding the pandemic situation. We found a high prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms in the study sample. Also, the changes in post mortem procedures, have shown to be of great importance in the mourning procedure of the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Aguiar
- EPIUnit—Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Pinto
- Unidade de Investigação Clínica da ARS Norte, Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Psicologia e Ciências da Educação, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Raquel Duarte
- EPIUnit—Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Porto, Portugal
- Unidade de Investigação Clínica da ARS Norte, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Pneumologia, Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
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22
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Yoosefi Lebni J, Irandoost SF, Safari H, Xosravi T, Ahmadi S, Soofizad G, Ebadi Fard Azar F, Hoseini AS, Mehedi N. Lived Experiences and Challenges of the Families of COVID-19 Victims: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study in Tehran, Iran. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2022; 59:469580221081405. [PMID: 35225048 PMCID: PMC8886310 DOI: 10.1177/00469580221081405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Being COVID-19 positive and then dying causes a slew of personal, familial, and social issues for family members. Therefore, the current study was carried out to analyze the lived experiences and issues of COVID-19 victims' families in Tehran, Iran. The phenomenological approach was used in the qualitative analysis of 21 first-degree relatives of COVID-19 victims. From August 22 to October 21, 2020, data was gathered by phone (4 people) and in-person (17 people) using semi-structured interviews. The subjects were chosen through purposeful and snowball sampling. The MAXQDA-2018 program was used to organize the data, and the Colaizzi analytical technique was used to analyze it. Guba and Lincoln's criteria were also used to assess the findings' quality. After analyzing the data, 2 main categories and 14 subcategories were extracted, including (1) challenges in caring for a COVID-19 patient (being rejected, limited access to medical facilities, dissatisfaction with the behavior of medical staff, disruption of family life, the challenge of managing family members' behavior with the patient, and living with doubts and worries (2) challenges after a COVID-19 patient's death (incomplete farewell to the corpse, unbelievability of the death, ambiguity and tension in the burial process, lonely burial, the twinge of conscience, worry about not respecting the deceased, incomplete condolences, and abandonment). The troubles of victims' families can be ameliorated by developing the skills of caring for COVID-19 patients at home, providing medical and psychological services to families before and after the patient's death, appropriately informing the families to guarantee them about dignity and respect and respect of the deceased at the interment, and developing a culture of virtual condolence to provide emotional support to survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Yoosefi Lebni
- Health Promotion Research Center, 440827Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Fahim Irandoost
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, 37555Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hossein Safari
- Health Promotion Research Center, 440827Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, 113106Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Tareq Xosravi
- 201574Islamic Azad University Sanandaj Branch, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Sina Ahmadi
- Social Welfare Management Research Centre, Department of Social Welfare Management, 48533University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Goli Soofizad
- School of Public Health and Safety, 556492Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farbod Ebadi Fard Azar
- Health Promotion Research Center, 440827Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ava Sadat Hoseini
- Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, School of Health, 440827Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nafiul Mehedi
- Department of Social Work, 113074Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
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23
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Mitima-Verloop HB, Mooren TTM, Kritikou ME, Boelen PA. Restricted Mourning: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Funeral Services, Grief Rituals, and Prolonged Grief Symptoms. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:878818. [PMID: 35711586 PMCID: PMC9195581 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.878818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has put various restrictions on grief rituals. Literature suggests that the restrictions on funerals and grief rituals may increase the chance of developing symptoms of prolonged grief (PG). In this study, we explored the possible impact of the pandemic on aspects of the funeral and grief rituals and examined their relationship with PG symptoms. METHOD Bereaved individuals from different countries, who lost a loved one in the year prior to the pandemic (n = 50) or during the pandemic (n = 182), filled in an online questionnaire, including a rating of the impact of COVID-19 restrictions, five aspects of the funeral service, five aspects of grief rituals, and a measurement for PG symptoms. RESULTS Participants bereaved during the pandemic rated the impact of the restrictions on the experience of the funeral and grief rituals as negative. Nevertheless, no differences were found in attendance and evaluation of the funeral and grief rituals for people bereaved prior to vs. during the pandemic. Attendance and evaluation of the funeral services were related to levels of PG symptoms, whereas the performance and helpfulness of grief rituals were not related to these symptoms. Although not related to PG symptoms, half of the participants used helpful alternative rituals to cope with their loss. DISCUSSION Our study suggests that bereaved people respond resiliently to the COVID-19 pandemic, for example by creating alternative rituals to cope with their loss. Furthermore, it stresses the importance of looking beyond symptom levels when studying the importance of funeral and grief rituals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huibertha B Mitima-Verloop
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
| | - Trudy T M Mooren
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
| | | | - Paul A Boelen
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
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