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Rawlings D, Miller-Lewis L, Tieman J. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Funerals: Experiences of Participants in the 2020 Dying2Learn Massive Open Online Course. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024; 89:429-451. [PMID: 35199622 PMCID: PMC8891243 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221075283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A Massive-Open-Online-Course (MOOC) on death and dying (Dying2Learn) was offered in 2020, designed to build conversations about death as a natural part of life. In week 1, the content focused on how today's society engages with death through the language we use, humour, public mourning and funerals. This study investigated 2020 MOOC participants' responses to an online activity reflecting on funerals and memorials during the time of COVID-19. From this activity, n = 204 responses were analysed qualitatively. Themes included the positives and negatives of virtual funeral attendance (e.g. opportunity to have a way to participate when travel barriers existed, versus a sense of impersonal voyeurism); and the challenges related to the inability to physically comfort the bereaved due to physical distancing requirements. Comments made as part of this MOOC activity provide a unique insight into the community's experience of funeral changes necessitated by COVID-19, with important implications for the grieving process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deb Rawlings
- Research Centre for Palliative Care, Death and Dying. Flinders University, Adelaide, AU-SA, Australia
| | - Lauren Miller-Lewis
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity Australia, Wayville, AU-SA, Australia
| | - Jennifer Tieman
- Research Centre for Palliative Care, Death and Dying. Flinders University, Adelaide, AU-SA, Australia
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2
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Ehntholt A, Rodgers IT, Lekas HM, Lewis-Fernández R, Samaranayake D, Anderson A, Capobianco L, Cohen DE, Feeney S, Leckman-Westin E, Marinovic S, Pritam R, Chen S, Smith TE, Dixon LB, Saake A. Disparities in COVID-19-Related Psychological Distress Among Recipients of a State's Public Mental Health Services. Psychiatr Serv 2024; 75:444-450. [PMID: 37960865 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.20230025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors examined changes in perceived anxiety, stress, and mental health symptoms (i.e., psychological distress) reported by recipients of New York State public mental health services during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as whether these changes varied by demographic characteristics or pandemic-related socioeconomic challenges. METHODS A statewide survey of service recipients (N=3,483) was conducted (May 8-June 22, 2020). Descriptive analyses were summarized, and logistic regression was used to evaluate associations between increases in reported psychological distress and age, gender, region of residence, race and ethnicity, socioeconomic challenges, and alcohol or drug use. RESULTS Fifty-five percent of respondents (N=1,933) reported a slight or moderate increase in COVID-19-related psychological distress, and 15% (N=520) reported a substantial increase. In adjusted models, substantial elevations in psychological distress were associated with identifying as female (AOR=1.83, 95% CI=1.50-2.25), experiencing three or more pandemic-related socioeconomic challenges (AOR=2.41, 95% CI=1.91-3.03), and reporting increased use of alcohol or drugs (AOR=1.81, 95% CI=1.34-2.44). Compared with non-Hispanic/Latinx White service recipients, non-Hispanic/Latinx Black individuals had lower odds of reporting substantially increased psychological distress (AOR=0.59, 95% CI=0.45-0.76), as did non-Hispanic/Latinx Asian-descent individuals (AOR=0.28, 95% CI=0.12-0.64). CONCLUSIONS In this large sample of recipients of New York State public mental health services, the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on psychological well-being was widespread and varied by gender, race and ethnicity, and socioeconomic vulnerability. These relationships must be considered in ongoing efforts to provide optimal care for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Ehntholt
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Ian T Rodgers
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Helen-Maria Lekas
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Roberto Lewis-Fernández
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Dhanushki Samaranayake
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Adrienne Anderson
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Linda Capobianco
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Dana E Cohen
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Suzanne Feeney
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Emily Leckman-Westin
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Sonia Marinovic
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Riti Pritam
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Shuo Chen
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Thomas E Smith
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Lisa B Dixon
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
| | - Amanda Saake
- New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Ehntholt, Rodgers, Samaranayake, Anderson, Cohen, Feeney, Leckman-Westin, Marinovic, Pritam, Chen, Smith, Dixon, Saake); New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City (Rodgers, Lewis-Fernández, Anderson, Cohen); Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City (Ehntholt, Lewis-Fernández, Smith, Dixon); Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York (Lekas, Capobianco)
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3
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Patel PS, Desai ND, Shah SH, Shah SN. Lived Experiences of Bereaved Family Members During COVID-19 Pandemic in a Tertiary Care Hospital With Special Reference to Imposed Restrictive COVID Guidelines-a Qualitative Study. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024; 89:404-420. [PMID: 35184587 PMCID: PMC8863921 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221075207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to understand the experiences of bereaved family members in view of restrictive COVID guidelines using qualitative approach. 10 Hindu, Gujarati bereaved family members who lost their loved ones during the first wave were interviewed telephonically after a month of their loss. Findings were difficulty in proper communication during hospitalization, disrupted end-of-life and funeral rituals and accepting harsh realities related to the changes imposed by using content analysis. Most of the family members felt that there was a need of staying with the patients. Telephonic mode of communication was not sufficient for them and created doubts related to death. Most of them felt remorseful as they were not able to see or bring their loved one home during their last moments and felt deprived of the traditional rituals. Also, they had to deal with their grief by themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preet S Patel
- Department of Psychiatry,
GMERS Medical College Gotri
Vadodara, Vadodara, India
| | - Nimisha D. Desai
- Department of Psychiatry,
GMERS Medical College Gotri
Vadodara, Vadodara, India
| | - Sandip H. Shah
- Department of Psychiatry,
GMERS Medical College Gotri
Vadodara, Vadodara, India
| | - Saurabh N. Shah
- Department of Psychiatry,
GMERS Medical College Gotri
Vadodara, Vadodara, India
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4
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Aliyaki H, Momeni F, Dolatshahi B, Hosseinzadeh S, Yousefi S, Abdoli F. Mourning in the time of coronavirus: Examining how grief differs in those who lost loved ones to COVID-19 vs. natural causes in Iran. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38533611 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951524000348] [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: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our study aimed to analyze and compare the grief experiences of individuals in Iran who lost family members to COVID-19 and those who lost loved ones to other natural causes. METHODS In this study, telephone interviews were conducted with 640 first-degree relatives, and finally, a total of 395 people remained in the research. Participants answered the Prolonged Grief Questionnaire (PG-13-R) and Grief Experience Questionnaire. RESULTS The results showed that the most common symptoms and features of grief were feeling guilt, searching for an explanation, somatic reactions, and rejection, with no significant difference observed between the 2 death groups. However, the average scores for these symptoms were higher in the COVID-19 death group. Moreover, the majority of bereaved reported signs and symptoms of prolonged grief, with a higher percentage in the COVID-19 death group, although there was no significant difference between the 2 death groups in terms of the distribution of symptoms and signs of prolonged grief. These findings suggest that the bereavement process can be challenging, and losing a loved one to COVID-19 may lead to more intense experiences of grief. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The study reveals high levels of guilt, searching for meaning, somatic reactions, and rejection among COVID-19 grievers. Losing loved ones to the pandemic appears linked to more intense, prolonged grief symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajar Aliyaki
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Momeni
- Department of Psychology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behrouz Dolatshahi
- Department of Psychology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahab Yousefi
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Behavioral Science and Mental Health (Tehran Institute of Psychiatry), Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Abdoli
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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5
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Lapenskie J, Anderson K, Lawlor PG, Kabir M, Noel C, Heidinger B, Parsons HA, Cohen L, Gratton V, Besserer E, Adeli S, Murphy R, Warmels G, Bruni A, Bhimji K, Dyason C, Enright P, Desjardins I, Wooller K, Arsenault-Mehta K, Webber C, Bedard D, Iyengar A, Bush SH, Isenberg SR, Tanuseputro P, Vanderspank-Wright B, Downar J. Long-term bereavement outcomes in family members of those who died in acute care hospitals before and during the first wave of COVID-19: A cohort study. Palliat Med 2024; 38:264-271. [PMID: 38229211 PMCID: PMC10865760 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231223394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe grief is highly distressing and prevalent up to 1 year post-death among people bereaved during the first wave of COVID-19, but no study has assessed changes in grief severity beyond this timeframe. AIM Understand the trajectory of grief during the pandemic by reassessing grief symptoms in our original cohort 12-18 months post-death. DESIGN Prospective matched cohort study. SETTINGS/PARTICIPANTS Family members of decedents who died in an acute care hospital between November 1, 2019 and August 31, 2020 in Ottawa, Canada. Family members of patients who died of COVID (COVID +ve) were matched 2:1 with those who died of non-COVID illness (COVID -ve) during pandemic wave 1 or immediately prior to its onset (pre-COVID). Grief was assessed using the Inventory of Complicated Grief (ICG). RESULTS Follow-up assessment was completed by 92% (111/121) of family members in the initial cohort. Mean ICG score on the 12-18-month assessment was 19.9 (SD = 11.8), and severe grief (ICG > 25) was present in 28.8% of participants. One-third (33.3%) had either a persistently high (>25) or worsening ICG score (⩾4-point increase between assessments). Using a modified Poisson regression analysis, persistently high or worsening ICG scores were associated with endotracheal intubation in the deceased, but not cause of death (COVID +ve, COVID -ve, pre-COVID) or physical presence of the family member in the final 48 h of life. CONCLUSIONS Severe grief is a substantial source of psychological morbidity in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, persisting more than a year post-death. Our findings highlight an acute need for effective and scalable means of addressing severe grief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lapenskie
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Koby Anderson
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Peter G. Lawlor
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Monisha Kabir
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Chelsea Noel
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Brandon Heidinger
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Henrique A. Parsons
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Leila Cohen
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Valérie Gratton
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Samantha Adeli
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Rebekah Murphy
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Queensway-Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Grace Warmels
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Queensway-Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Adrianna Bruni
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Queensway-Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Khadija Bhimji
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Queensway-Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Claire Dyason
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Paula Enright
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Isabelle Desjardins
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Krista Wooller
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Colleen Webber
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Shirley H Bush
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sarina R Isenberg
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Tanuseputro
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Institut du Savoir Montfort, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Brandi Vanderspank-Wright
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - James Downar
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology School of Law, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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6
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Moya-Salazar J, Cañari B, Zuñiga N, Jaime-Quispe A, Contreras-Pulache H. The End of Life Accompanied by COVID-19: A Qualitative Study on Changes in Behavior and Stigmatization of the Grieving Families in Peru (Part II). OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231212655. [PMID: 37934453 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231212655] [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: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
The rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 has led to changes in every aspect of life and death. In Peru, where the longest quarantine has occurred with suboptimal results, the rituals have been turned around, impacting the relatives in multiple aspects. Here, we used a qualitative approach to analyze unresolved grief, hygiene changes, and stigma through semi-structured, online (Google Meet) interviews with 15 participants aged 20-72, who had lost family members to COVID-19. The recorded and transcribed interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Most participants had unresolved grief due to the blocking of funeral rituals, which could predispose them to prolonged mourning. After the loss of relatives, hygiene measures will be improved to avoid infections and new deaths in every family, while most participants felt no stigma in their milieu, since their relatives accompanied them during the funeral, supporting them from afar. It is important that interventions are implemented to prevent the progression of grief by providing mental health opportunities for the bereaved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeel Moya-Salazar
- Digital Transformation Center, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universidad Tecnológica Del Perú, Lima, Peru
| | - Betsy Cañari
- Digital Transformation Center, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
| | - Nahomi Zuñiga
- Digital Transformation Center, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
| | - Alexis Jaime-Quispe
- Digital Transformation Center, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
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7
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Firouzkouhi M, Alimohammadi N, Abdollahimohammad A, Bagheri G, Farzi J. Bereaved Families Views on the Death of Loved Ones Due to COVID 19: An Integrative Review. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023; 88:4-19. [PMID: 34396819 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211038206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Families encounter some issues after the death of their loved one due to COVID-19. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the family's views on the death of their loved one due to COVID-19. This integrative review was conducted from May to Jan 2021. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, CINHAL, Magiran, and SID databases. Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The results were classified into two categories, including before and after death. The issues raised before the death of the loved ones include no visit and absence at death time, fear of being infected with the COVID-19, death anxiety, failure to perform religious rites at death, and psychological problems. The after-death issues were related to funeral, burial, rituals, prolonged grieving, maladaptation, loneliness, and repeated mourning. Therefore, health policymakers should provide support before and after the death of loved ones for families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza Firouzkouhi
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Zabol University of MedicalSciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Nasrollah Alimohammadi
- Department of Nursing Intensive Care, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Abdolghani Abdollahimohammad
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Zabol University of MedicalSciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Bagheri
- Faculty of Health, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Jebraeil Farzi
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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8
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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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9
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de Oliveira RM, de Sousa ÁFL, de Sousa AR, Araújo AAC, Muniz VDO, Fronteira I, Mendes IAC. Misinformation about COVID-19 among middle-aged and older migrants residing in Brazil and Portugal. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2023; 57:e20220401. [PMID: 37603876 PMCID: PMC10513484 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2022-0401en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of COVID-19 misinformation among migrants aged 50 or older residing in Brazil and Portugal. METHOD This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted among migrants from Portuguese-speaking countries living in Brazil and Portugal, who were 50 years of age or older. The prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated using the Poisson regression model. RESULTS Out of the 304 participants included in the study, 188 (61.8%) agreed with at least one piece of misinformation. Factors such as having a religious affiliation (aPR: 1.24), higher educational attainment (aPR: 1.17), knowing someone who died from COVID-19 (aPR: 1.78), and having no intention to get vaccinated (aPR: 1.36) were associated with a higher likelihood of agreeing with COVID-19 misinformation. CONCLUSION The findings suggest that access to misinformation was influenced by social, economic, and religious factors among elderly migrants with low digital literacy, thus contributing to the dissemination of false content within this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Inês Fronteira
- Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Lisboa, Portugal
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10
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Adu AA, Bunga BN, Liem A, Kiling IY. Death, Funeral Rituals, and Stigma: Perspectives from Mortuary Workers and Bereaved Families. PASTORAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 72:305-316. [PMID: 36691468 PMCID: PMC9850318 DOI: 10.1007/s11089-022-01053-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Deaths caused by COVID-19 have affected bereaved family members in several ways, including the inability to perform funeral rites and rituals. Understanding the dynamics and experiences of death and funerals of bereaved families and mortuary workers can lead to improvements in funeral services and the provision of social support for the affected families and mortuary workers. This study aimed to capture the experiences of mourning family members in Indonesia who lost a loved one due to COVID-19 and of mortuary workers who performed funerals according to COVID-19 protocols. Ten family members and 12 mortuary workers living in West Timor, Indonesia, were interviewed using a semistructured interview approach. Findings of the study show that mortuary workers were able to strictly implement the new funeral protocols. However, the rushed nature of these funerals led to resistance from families and prevented bereaved families from performing the usual cultural and religious funeral rituals. This, combined with stigma from their neighbors, led these families to have poor psychological wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apris A. Adu
- Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Nusa Cendana, Kupang, Indonesia
| | | | - Andrian Liem
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Sunway, Malaysia
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11
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Holman S, Steinberg R, Schaffer A, Fiksenbaum L, Sinyor M. The association of social, economic, and health-related variables with suicidal and/or self-harm thoughts in individuals admitted to a psychiatric inpatient unit during the COVID-19 pandemic: An exploratory study. Psychiatry Res 2023; 319:114998. [PMID: 36535108 PMCID: PMC9737504 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with pre-existing psychiatric diagnoses appear to be vulnerable to worsening mental health symptoms during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Furthermore, psychiatric hospitalizations during the pandemic may be complicated by increased risk of SARS-Cov-2 infection and limited social engagement due to changes in hospital policies. The objective of our exploratory study was to determine whether social, economic, and health-related variables were associated with thoughts of suicide and/or self-harm since March 2020 in individuals admitted to a psychiatric inpatient unit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chi-square tests revealed four variables were significantly associated with thoughts of suicide and/or self-harm: 1) difficulty with cancellation of important events, 2) some form of loneliness, 3) decreased time spent in green spaces, and 4) increased time spent using devices with screens. The logistic regression model showed a significant association between suicidal and/or self-harm thoughts and cancellation of important events. Further investigation of the loneliness variable components revealed a significant association between suicidal and/or self-harm thoughts and feeling a lack of companionship, feeling isolated, and feeling alone. These results suggest that social challenges experienced during the pandemic were associated with negative mental health symptoms of individuals admitted to a psychiatric inpatient unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Holman
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Rosalie Steinberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 27 King's College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Ayal Schaffer
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 27 King's College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Lisa Fiksenbaum
- Department of Psychology, York University, 4700 Keele St, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Mark Sinyor
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 27 King's College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada.
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12
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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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13
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Becker C, Taniyama Y, Kondo-Arita M, Sasaki N, Yamada S, Yamamoto K. How funerals mediate the psycho-social impact of grief: Qualitative analysis of open-ended responses to a national survey in Japan. SSM - MENTAL HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmmh.2022.100169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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14
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Garcia JT, Dos Santos MA, Arantes de Oliveira-Cardoso É. Pre-death grief in patients requiring hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. DEATH STUDIES 2022:1-12. [PMID: 36437595 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2022.2150723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to understand the pre-death grief experienced by patients requiring Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. The sample consisted of nine adult patients. A semi-structured interview was applied individually, and audio was recorded and analyzed qualitatively using thematic analysis. The results were organized into two categories, namely: Pre-death grief: Receiving the diagnosis, and Pre-death adjustment: Adaptation to the new condition. It was observed that there was a shock and a need to deal with the losses stemming from a serious illness, but then there was openness to reflection, and from this a new way of being and living emerged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Tomé Garcia
- Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade de São Paulo. Avenida Bandeirantes, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Manoel Antônio Dos Santos
- Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade de São Paulo. Avenida Bandeirantes, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Érika Arantes de Oliveira-Cardoso
- Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade de São Paulo. Avenida Bandeirantes, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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15
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Qian W, Tang R, Jiao K, Xu X, Zou X, Wang J. Growing in Suffering: The Curvilinear Relationship Between Prolonged Grief and Post-traumatic Growth of Recently Bereaved Individual During the COVID-19 Pandemic. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221141937. [PMID: 36423236 PMCID: PMC9703020 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221141937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges to mourning and growth of bereaved. The purpose is to explore the relationship between the prolonged grief (PG) symptoms and the post-traumatic growth (PTG) of recently bereaved people during the COVID-19 period, and the mediating role of meaning making. 305 participants were recruited to complete the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, Inventory of Complicated Grief, and Integration of Stressful Life Experiences Scale. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses and Medcurve in SPSS were adapted to test the hypotheses. The results revealed that there was a curvilinear relationship between PG and PTG and meaning making had a completely mediating effect on this relationship. Different intervention goals - whether alleviating distress or cultivating growth - should be set up according to the level of grief for recently bereaved individuals during COVID-19. More attention should be paid to the role of meaning making in the future clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Qian
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, China
| | - Renzhihui Tang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, China
| | - Keyuan Jiao
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xin Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, China
| | - Xinyan Zou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, China
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16
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Zou X, Xu X, Tang R, Jiao K, Qian W, Shen X, Wang J. Potential risk factors for acute grief during the COVID-19 pandemic: The mediating role of avoidance processes. Clin Psychol Psychother 2022; 30:202-212. [PMID: 36303248 PMCID: PMC9874740 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic may have some unique characteristics that become potential risk factors (e.g., absence of grief rituals, no opportunity to say goodbye to the deceased and loneliness caused by social distancing) for acute grief. Avoidance processes could be significant mediators in the context of the pandemic. The current study aimed to investigate whether and how these COVID-19-related risk factors were related to acute grief severity. Bereaved adults (n = 319) who lost significant others during the COVID-19 pandemic completed a self-report questionnaire package measuring COVID-19-related factors, grief severity and depressive and anxious avoidance. Regression analyses suggested that among the three potential risk factors (loneliness, grief rituals and opportunity to say goodbye), loneliness was significantly associated with acute grief after controlling for basic demographic and loss-related information. Structural equation models suggested that depressive avoidance and anxious avoidance partially mediated the associations of loneliness with acute grief severity. The findings indicate that dealing with loss during the COVID-19 pandemic warrants further exploration concerning how potential environmental risk factors may impede adaptation to loss. Depressive and anxious avoidance processes may play important roles in grief interventions for isolated and lonely bereaved people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Zou
- Faculty of PsychologyBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina,Mental Health Education and Counselling CenterUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Xin Xu
- Faculty of PsychologyBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Renzhihui Tang
- Faculty of PsychologyBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Keyuan Jiao
- Department of Social Work and Social AdministrationUniversity of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Wenli Qian
- Faculty of PsychologyBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xinlan Shen
- Faculty of PsychologyBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jianping Wang
- Faculty of PsychologyBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
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17
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Beard VR, Burger WC. Victimization of the Dead: Exploring Burglars Use of Publicly Available Obituary Information to Perpetrate Their Crimes. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221139349. [PMID: 36356597 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221139349] [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: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
The present study uses primary data collected by the researchers on residential burglaries committed in the time-period of 1991-2021 to analyze the individual year frequency of obituary burglaries and patterns across time in relation to obituary burglaries. The goal is to assess the frequency of this form of burglary and the potential impact of increased web based publishing of obituaries on incidents of residential burglaries during funerary rites. Findings indicate that while this form of burglary is rare, it is a niche form of residential burglary committed by specialized burglars who utilize information available about funerals to specifically target the family of the deceased's home or the vacant home of the deceased. Recommendations for protecting against this form of victimization are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia R Beard
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, Longwood University, Farmville, VA, USA
| | - William C Burger
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, Longwood University, Farmville, VA, USA
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18
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Laranjeira C, Dixe MA, Querido A, Stritch JM. Death cafés as a strategy to foster compassionate communities: Contributions for death and grief literacy. Front Psychol 2022; 13:986031. [PMID: 35983204 PMCID: PMC9379088 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.986031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Laranjeira
- School of Health Sciences of Polytechnic of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Leiria, Portugal
- Research in Education and Community Intervention (RECI), Piaget Institute, Viseu, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Carlos Laranjeira
| | - Maria Anjos Dixe
- School of Health Sciences of Polytechnic of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Leiria, Portugal
| | - Ana Querido
- School of Health Sciences of Polytechnic of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), NursID, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jennifer Moran Stritch
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, Social Sciences ConneXions Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon, Limerick, Ireland
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19
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Hernández‐Fernández C, Meneses‐Falcón C. I can't believe they are dead. Death and mourning in the absence of goodbyes during the COVID-19 pandemic. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e1220-e1232. [PMID: 34363273 PMCID: PMC8444868 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The circumstances surrounding the deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent mourning process transpired in completely atypical conditions. This study analyses the experience of losing a loved one without traditional, culture-specific rituals for saying goodbye, explores the different factors affecting the onset of mourning by family members and studies the existence of complicating risk factors associated with grief from this distinct type of loss. A qualitative, phenomenological and interpretive research study was undertaken through in-depth interviews of 48 informants, key and general, in the autonomous Community of Madrid. The interviews were conducted between July and November of 2020 and were followed by an interpretive categorical qualitative analysis. The principal results include (a) the finding that deaths caused by the pandemic are, due to their characteristics, a complicating factor for bereavement, (b) evidence that the professionals who supported these deaths with a holistic approach, facilitating the process for the family members, have been a determining factor in enabling the beginning of the mourning process and reducing anguish for the family members and (c) the conclusion that a need exists for a resignification of the funeral rite. Finally, before future crises, it is recommended that access protocols be developed for relatives, including methods that permit them to say goodbye to their loved ones, no matter the situation.
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20
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Manyaapelo T, Edwards A, Mpanza N, Nxumalo S, Nxumalo Z, Gumede N, Ngwenya N, Seeley J. COVID-19 and older people’s wellbeing in northern KwaZulu-Natal – the importance of relationships. Wellcome Open Res 2022. [DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17841.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and the non-pharmacological prevention methods have affected the wellbeing of older people. In this paper we focus on the wellbeing, and vulnerability, of older people in rural northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa during the first year of the pandemic. Methods: We conducted a series of up to four monthly in-depth interviews with 26 people aged 60 years and older. Interviews were conducted by telephone, because of restrictions on face-to-face contact, and digitally recorded. After transcription and translation, the data were coded thematically, with analysis guided by a wellbeing theoretical framework. Results: Having access to food, to healthcare and to somewhere they felt safe to stay, was essential for everyone, but for many managing expenses became more of a struggle as adult children who had lost their source of employment came home to stay. However, despite the shortages of money, the importance of relationships, whether they are familial or the close community of neighbours, was highlighted in the accounts from a number of participants. Older people not only got help with day-to-day life from others, but also found solace in the company of others. The sense of community, from family and neighbours, helped to ease some of the stress experienced as a result of the lockdowns. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions imposed to limit the spread of the virus impacted the wellbeing of older adults in rural KwaZulu-Natal. Wellbeing for many older people has been nurtured by relationships with family and friends.
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21
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Abstract
This study examined the relationship between having an opportunity to say goodbye to a dying family member or friend in person or virtually, as well as attending their funeral services in person or virtually, and the bereaved individuals' psychological distress and complicated grief during the COVID-19 pandemic. Five hundred and nineteen US adults who had lost a family member or a friend between January 2020 and June 2021 completed an online survey for this study. Only a small proportion of participants were able to say goodbye to their dying family member or friend in person, and saying goodbye virtually was associated with higher levels of complicated grief and psychological distress. Those who physically attended a formal, in-person funeral or memorial service reported lower levels of psychological distress. The findings suggest a complicated process of saying goodbye in different formats during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cliff Yung-Chi Chen
- Educational and Community Programs, 359034Queens College of the City University of New York, Flushing, NY, USA
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22
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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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23
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Biancalani G, Azzola C, Sassu R, Marogna C, Testoni I. Spirituality for Coping with the Trauma of a Loved One's Death During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Italian Qualitative Study. PASTORAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 71:173-185. [PMID: 35194250 PMCID: PMC8853234 DOI: 10.1007/s11089-021-00989-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Spirituality may be a key factor in reducing the negative psychological effects of traumatic events and a means by which the experience of grief can be processed. The objective of the present research is to assess whether and how spirituality provided concrete support in those who lost a loved one during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants are 8 people from the most affected cities in northern Italy. They were interviewed in depth, the interviews were transcribed and the texts were analyzed through Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. The results show that spirituality has been found to be a protective factor with regard to the processing of grief in crisis situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular with regard to the belief that the deceased loved one is now in an otherworldly dimension. In addition, the celebration of a funeral rite offers support to the grieving person in the early stages of mourning thus laying the foundation for a healthy grieving process. It is therefore important to support individual spirituality, which can be a useful tool for processing the traumatic experience, especially in difficult times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianmarco Biancalani
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Claudia Azzola
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Raluca Sassu
- Department of Journalism, Public Relations, Sociology and Psychology, Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, Sibiu, Romania
| | - Cristina Marogna
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Ines Testoni
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Marchica B, Rosellini F, Iacona E, Wieser MA, Testoni I. Spiritual Counseling During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy: a Qualitative Study. PASTORAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 71:233-244. [PMID: 35132280 PMCID: PMC8811338 DOI: 10.1007/s11089-022-00996-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has created profound upheavals in today's society, accompanied by psychological effects. The discomfort experienced during the pandemic accompanied by the increased availability of time has offered many people the chance to reconnect with their spiritual dimension, which is considered a vital resource in managing the stress produced by the perception of risk to their health. This study addresses the motivations that led research participants to choose to receive spiritual support via a 10-week training. The work also explores the changes perceived by the participants as they overcame the difficulties resulting from the pandemic. The research involved nine people between the ages of 19 and 59 who took part in an online experience focused on the spiritual dimension. Almost all the participants came from an area in Northern Italy most affected by the pandemic. A qualitative research design was used, with semistructured interviews designed to understand participants' views on the topic under investigation. The areas that emerged from the interviews concerned the motivations that led the participants to choose a spiritual support process, the role of spirituality in daily life, and the changes participants experienced after the conclusion of the experience related to managing the stress caused by the pandemic. In agreement with the existing literature, the results show that spiritual support can be useful in counteracting the negative effects of the pandemic, producing improvements in the quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Marchica
- Milan Insight School (MIS) Department of Spiritual and Pastoral Theology, Higher Institute of Religious Sciences of Milan (ISSRMI), Via Cavalieri del Sacro Sepolcro 3, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Rosellini
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, Via Venezia 14, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Erika Iacona
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, Via Venezia 14, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Michael Alexander Wieser
- Department of Psychology, Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt, Universitätsstrasse, 65–67, 9020 Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - Ines Testoni
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, Via Venezia 14, 35131 Padova, Italy
- Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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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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Moura AAMD, Bassoli IR, Silveira BVD, Diehl A, Santos MAD, Santos RAD, Wagstaff C, Pillon SC. Is social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic a risk factor for depression? Rev Bras Enferm 2022; 75Suppl 1:e20210594. [DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2021-0594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objective: To assess factors associated with depression among higher education students and professionals during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: quantitative study with a cross-sectional design. 550 students and professionals participated. The data were collected by means of a digital questionnaire that included Patient Health Questionnaire-9 to assess depressive symptoms. Results: The factors related to depression and social isolation outcomes were significantly associated with the female gender (n= 149; 37,8%; Odds Ratio OR=2,0), white (n=127; 37,2%; OR=1,60), young people (n=130; 39,4%; OR=2,0), without religion (n=70; 40,2%; OR=1,64), with financial problems (n=80; 53,0%; OR=2,40) and family problems (n=98; 47,3%; OR=1,77); who suffered violence during the quarantine (n=28; 58,3%; OR=2,33), increased the use of illicit drugs (n=16; 59,3%; OR=2,69), used sedatives without a medical prescription (n=75; 54,0%; OR=2,94), lived in conflicting relationships (n=33; 54,1%;OR=2,14), lost their job during the pandemic (n=32; 59,3%; OR=1,99) and presented symptoms of anxiety related to COVID-19 (n=155; 45,2%; OR=3,91). Conclusion: there is a meaningful relationship between vulnerability and adopting risk behaviors during the pandemic-imposed social isolation with depressive symptoms. We suggest that health professionals be attentive to the need to adjust their psychosocial interventions when promoting strategies when promoting strategies to mitigate the effects and risks to mental health.
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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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Silverio SA, Easter A, Storey C, Jurković D, Sandall J. Preliminary findings on the experiences of care for parents who suffered perinatal bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:840. [PMID: 34937548 PMCID: PMC8693591 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04292-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic poses an unprecedented risk to the global population. Maternity care in the UK was subject to many iterations of guidance on how best to reconfigure services to keep women, their families and babies, and healthcare professionals safe. Parents who experience a pregnancy loss or perinatal death require particular care and support. PUDDLES is an international collaboration investigating the experiences of recently bereaved parents who suffered a late miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death during the global COVID-19 pandemic, in seven countries. In this study, we aim to present early findings from qualitative work undertaken with recently bereaved parents in the United Kingdom about how access to healthcare and support services was negotiated during the pandemic. METHODS In-depth semi-structured interviews were undertaken with parents (N = 24) who had suffered a late miscarriage (n = 5; all mothers), stillbirth (n = 16; 13 mothers, 1 father, 1 joint interview involving both parents), or neonatal death (n = 3; all mothers). Data were analysed using a template analysis with the aim of investigating bereaved parents' access to services, care, and networks of support, during the pandemic after their bereavement. RESULTS All parents had experience of utilising reconfigured maternity and/or neonatal, and bereavement care services during the pandemic. The themes utilised in the template analysis were: 1) The Shock & Confusion Associated with Necessary Restrictions to Daily Life; 2) Fragmented Care and Far Away Families; 3) Keeping Safe by Staying Away; and 4) Impersonal Care and Support Through a Screen. Results suggest access to maternity, neonatal, and bereavement care services were all significantly reduced, and parents' experiences were notably affected by service reconfigurations. CONCLUSIONS Our findings, whilst preliminary, are important to document now, to help inform care and service provision as the pandemic continues and to provide learning for ongoing and future health system shocks. We draw conclusions on how to enable development of safe and appropriate services during this pandemic and any future health crises, to best support parents who experience a pregnancy loss or whose babies die.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Silverio
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Abigail Easter
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Davor Jurković
- Gynaecology Diagnostic Outpatient Treatment Unit, University College Hospital, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jane Sandall
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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Sebola BR. Interaction of culture and grief amongst women who terminated a pregnancy in adolescence: A narrative approach. Curationis 2021; 44:e1-e6. [PMID: 34879686 PMCID: PMC8661433 DOI: 10.4102/curationis.v44i1.2247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Culture plays a vital role in resolving grief in African communities. However, women who terminate a pregnancy in adolescence are typically not exposed to cultural rituals that could ease their grief. Objectives The purpose of this article is to explore the interaction of culture and grief amongst women who terminated a pregnancy in adolescence. Method A qualitative exploratory study was undertaken using a narrative approach. Unstructured interviews were conducted to solicit narratives from 11 women who terminated a pregnancy in adolescence. Results Data were analysed through narrative, thematic data analysis. Three themes emerged from the findings: delayed post-traumatic growth, low body esteem and an alteration in the development of maternal identity. Conclusion The study intended to explore the interaction of culture and grief amongst women who terminated a pregnancy in adolescence. The researcher determined that women who had not honoured their culture because of the secrecy surrounding the termination of pregnancy had delayed healing and an altered self-image.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botshelo R Sebola
- Department of Health Studies, School of Social Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria.
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Hack E, Hayes B, Radcliffe N, Monda S, Yates P. COVID-19 Pandemic: End of Life Experience in Australian Residential Aged Care Facilities. Intern Med J 2021; 52:386-395. [PMID: 34783127 PMCID: PMC8652875 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background The COVID‐19 pandemic has significantly impacted those in residential aged care facilities (RACF). This research was undertaken to explore and better understand the effects of the pandemic on the experience of next‐of‐kin and carers who encountered the death of a loved one who resided within a RACF during the pandemic. Aims To explore end‐of‐life experiences for residents who die in RACF and their next‐of‐kin/carers during the COVID‐19 pandemic, to identify areas of concern and areas for improvement. Methods Prospective single‐centre mixed methods research was undertaken involving telephone interview with next‐of‐kin or carers of residents who died within 30 days of being referred to Austin Health Residential InReach Service during the ‘second wave’ of COVID‐19 in Melbourne, Australia, in 2020. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Qualitative description and aspects of grounded theory were used for analysing qualitative data. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts used open and axial coding to identify initial themes and then to group these under major themes. Results Forty‐one telephone interviews were analysed. Major themes identified included: COVID‐19 pandemic, communication and technology, death and dying experience, bereavement and grief, and social supports and external systems. Conclusions Findings identify the many COVID‐19 pandemic‐related challenges faced by participants and their dying loved one in RACF. Access to palliative care and bereavement support is crucial for dying residents and for grieving that has been made more difficult by the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Hack
- Advanced Trainee Registrar Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, Victoria
| | - Barbara Hayes
- Consultant Palliative Care Physician, Northern Health, Victoria, Honorary Assoc Professor, Northern Clinical School, University of Melbourne
| | - Nicholas Radcliffe
- Advanced Trainee Registrar Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, Victoria
| | - Sally Monda
- Hospital Medical Officer, Austin Health, Victoria
| | - Paul Yates
- Consultant Geriatrician, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, Victoria, Honorary Senior Research Fellow, University of Melbourne
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Factors affecting management of corpses of the confirmed COVID-19 patients during pandemic: A systematic review. J Forensic Leg Med 2021; 84:102273. [PMID: 34742123 PMCID: PMC8562040 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2021.102273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction The global spread of the COVID 19 disease and the concerning rise in the number of corpses of the patients dying of the disease has caused challenges in handling the corpses by the health system and relevant organizations in most countries. The aim of the present study was to investigate factors affecting the corpse management process of the patients dying of COVID 19. Materials and methods This study was a systematic review of literature using the PRISMA guideline. Without time limit until the end of January 2021, the studies related to corpse management in patients with COVID 19 were extracted from the data resources of Medline (PubMed), Web of Science, Google scholar, Embase, ProQuest, Scopus, Iranmedex, SID, and ISC, and also the reference lists of selected studies, as well as other systematic reviews, key journals, and proceedings of conferences and congresses. Finally, thematic analysis was used to analyze the obtained data. Results 190 studies were identified based on the initial search, and finally 21 studies were entered into analysis. Based on the systematic review and thematic content analysis, challenges in the process of managing the corpses of COVID-19 victims were divided into three main themes and eight sub-themes. The themes included psychosocial factors, environmental factors, and resources, and the sub-themes included supporting survivors, customs, values, infection control, corpse identification and burial, corpse transferring, equipment, and governments’ capacity. Conclusion Implementing psychological, social, and spiritual support programs for grieving families, the observance of customs and values governing the community at the time of funeral and burial, and planning to control infection and safety in the process of maintenance, transfer to the cemetery and safe burial are the most important strategies that can be used in the process of corpse management. Utilizing and aligning religious leaders with the health system in order to inform people about the ways of disease transmission from the bodies and to use alternative solutions for holding religious and cultural ceremonies (e.g., virtual mourning), as well as providing personal protective equipment to those in close contact with corpses, the development and implementation of health protocols for managing possibly a large number of bodies, capacity building, and anticipating necessary resources are highly recommended strategies.
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Wang Z, Wang D. The influence and enlightenment of five public health emergencies on public psychology since new century: A systematic review. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2021; 67:878-891. [PMID: 33722089 DOI: 10.1177/00207640211002222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the 21st century, humans have experienced five public health emergencies: the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), type A H1N1 influenza (H1N1), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), Ebola virus disease (EVD), and the new coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19). They caused a large number of casualties and a wider psychological crisis, which might cause severe consequences such as post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide. AIMS To reveal the law of formation of public psychological crisis in public health emergencies, and draw lessons from it. To provide ideas for effectively deal with these psychological crisis problems and fundamentally curbing the occurrence of public health emergencies. METHOD Through the method of literature research, 'public health incidents', 'psychological crisis', 'mental health', 'psychological intervention', 'SARS', 'H1N1', 'MERS', 'EVD', and 'COVID-19' were used to search literatures in the databases such as PubMed, Springer, and Sciencedirect, and the literatures were summarized, sorted, and studied. RESULTS (1) The public health emergencies caused a universal psychological crisis. The main manifestations were depression, compulsion, despair, etc. The people involved mainly include patients, suspected isolated patients, medical staff, and the general public in the epidemic situation. (2) People's psychological state often experienced stress stage, shock stage, acceptance, and reorganization. Only some susceptible individuals couldn't complete effective psychological reconstruction, resulting in serious psychological disorders. Individual susceptibility is related to genetic factors, adversity, and traumatic stimuli experienced in early life. CONCLUSION To reduce these psychological crisis problems, we should establish and improve the psychological crisis intervention or rescue system of public health emergencies, it was still necessary to live in harmony with nature, get rid of the inappropriate habit of preying on wild animals, in order to prevent the cross-species transmission of the virus between wild animals and humans, and to fundamentally avoid the occurrence of major infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifeng Wang
- Department of Physical Education, Xi'an Polytechnic University, Shanxi, China
| | - Dongmei Wang
- College of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Tai'an, China
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Nurhayati N, Purnama TB. Funeral Processes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perceptions Among Islamic Religious Leaders in Indonesia. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2021; 60:3418-3433. [PMID: 34472008 PMCID: PMC8409696 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-021-01418-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Controversies surrounding the handling of corpses have been amplified during the present COVID-19 pandemic. According to Indonesian scholars, certain perspectives driving these controversies inhibit the implementation of health protocols issued by the government. This study comprehensively explores the diverse perceptions and responses of religious leaders regarding COVID-19 funeral management. Participants comprised six scholars from major Islamic religious organizations, two community leaders, and two families representing COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, content analysis was used to analyze the data. The results showed that the religious leaders, all men aged over 50 years, supported the health directives designed to reduce high transmission risk. However, there were substantial disparities in corpse preparation processes, potentially due to organizational beliefs around burial rites. Some religious leaders aligned their protocols with their religious beliefs. Conversely, families of the deceased insisted that the approved protocol for handling corpses went against their religious and cultural values. Therefore, promotion of protocols and coordination among the government, religious leaders, and the community are needed to decrease the misperceptions and misinformation surrounding the new COVID-19 funeral protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurhayati Nurhayati
- Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Jl IAIN, Gaharu, Medan, Indonesia.
| | - Tri Bayu Purnama
- Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Jl IAIN, Gaharu, Medan, Indonesia
- Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Food and Nutrition/Pusat Kajian Gizi Regional UI, East Jakarta, Indonesia
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Chachar AS, Younus S, Ali W. Developmental Understanding of Death and Grief Among Children During COVID-19 Pandemic: Application of Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological Model. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:654584. [PMID: 34658940 PMCID: PMC8511419 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.654584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 Pandemic has influenced death-related attitudes and understanding during the childhood development leading to a life-long impact. Factors like pandemic-related movement restrictions, school closures, and parents' stay-at-home have exposed children to the phenomenon of grief and death. In that case, children anticipate adverse outcomes and fear while they struggle with unanswered questions. Children may not have coping skills needed to manage their grief in constructive ways to identify, normalize, and express their responses to the loss in their lives. Naming and validating these responses as distinctive aspects of grief process and providing safe space to express their feelings are essential components of a child's coping with loss and grief. This is crucial to consider, as different children react to and are influenced by their environments differently. This article aims to explore the developmental understanding of the process of death and grief by applying the conceptual framework of Bronfenbrenner's theory. Understanding mutual interaction between a child and various ecological systems determines how children perceive death and process grief can facilitate effective communication that has significant implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sana Younus
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Wamiq Ali
- Synapse, Pakistan Neuroscience Institute, Karachi, Pakistan
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Conz CA, Braga VAS, Vasconcelos R, Machado FHRDS, de Jesus MCP, Merighi MAB. Experiences of intensive care unit nurses with COVID-19 patients. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2021; 55:e20210194. [PMID: 34570870 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2021-0194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the experiences of intensive care unit nurses who provide care to patients with COVID-19. METHODS Qualitative study grounded in Alfred Schütz's social phenomenology in which 20 nurses who work in intensive care units at public and private hospitals were interviewed between July and September 2020. Data were analyzed according to the adopted theoretical-methodological framework and the literature related to the subject. RESULTS The interviewed nurses mentioned demands about working conditions, professional recognition and training, and support to physical and mental health, which proved necessary considering the care intensity experienced by these professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION Learning the nurses' experiences evidenced the need to adjust to a new way of providing care that included the physical space, new institutional protocols, continuous use of protective equipment, and patients' demand for special care. This originated the necessity to be around situations that interfered with their health and motivated them to carry out professional projects after the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vanessa Augusta Souza Braga
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maria Cristina Pinto de Jesus
- Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Faculdade de Enfermagem, Departamento de Enfermagem Básica, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Miriam Aparecida Barbosa Merighi
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem, Departamento de Enfermagem Materno-Infantil e Psiquiátrica, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Bradley L. A most vulnerable population: Black men. Nurs Forum 2021; 57:177-181. [PMID: 34549426 DOI: 10.1111/nuf.12653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Black men disproportionately experience the worst health outcomes among U.S. populations. Systemic social, political, and healthcare problems are important intersecting issues of Black men's poor health outcomes. As nursing is one of the most trusted professions, it is nurses' responsibilities to include care for vulnerable populations. In this creative controversy an alternative perspective of Black men as a vulnerable population is proposed. Potential tensions and an introspective call to action for all nurses is included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Bradley
- New York City College of Technology, Brooklyn, New York, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The paper aims to provide an overview of the psychological and behavioural impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on variations in behavioural response in different geographical areas due to the existence of different social-cultural contexts. RECENT FINDINGS Whilst anxiety, depression and economic stressors are common findings worldwide, specific behavioural responses are heavily influenced by government stances, misinformation, conspiratorialism and competing demands of resource scarcity. This has led to very different understandings of the pandemic even in geographically close areas, and more so when comparing disparate regions such as Africa, South America and Europe. The paper also comments on the absence of robust evidence regarding increases of suicidality and violence on a global level, whilst noting evidence certainly exists in specific regions. SUMMARY The psychological and behavioural impact of COVID is heavily influenced by the local lens. Beyond a very broad brush approaches, expected behaviours from one area cannot easily be extrapolated to others. Where possible, clinicians should be guided by local data, ideally placing expectations of responses in a cultural context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Kendrick
- Department of Psychiatry, Bunbury Hospital, Western Australian Country Health Service, Upper South West Mental Health Team, Bunbury
| | - Mohan Isaac
- University of Western Australia, Department of Psychiatry, Fremantle Hospital, South Metropolitan Health Service, Fremantle
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Parrish S. Reflection: (Not) feeding the bereaved in the time of coronavirus. FOOD AND FOODWAYS 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/07409710.2021.1943616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Parrish
- School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Bereaved: A Study of Bereaved Weibo Users. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9060724. [PMID: 34204707 PMCID: PMC8231593 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9060724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The global COVID-19 pandemic may significantly affect the experiences of death and bereavement. This study aimed to learn from recent outbreaks of infectious diseases and further understand their impacts on bereavement. We obtained psychological status scores for 32 individuals bereaved due to COVID-19 and 127 individuals bereaved due to non-COVID-19 causes using the online ecological recognition (OER) approach. Next, a sentiment analysis and independent sample t-test were performed to examine the differences between these two groups. The results indicated that the individuals bereaved due to COVID-19 were more insecure and more preoccupied with the grief of the moment than those bereaved due to non-COVID-19 reasons, while the latter group had higher depression scores than the former group. This study can guide policy-makers and clinical practitioners to provide more targeted and sustainable post-bereavement support for both bereaved groups during the COVID-19 period.
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40
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Diolaiuti F, Marazziti D, Beatino MF, Mucci F, Pozza A. Impact and consequences of COVID-19 pandemic on complicated grief and persistent complex bereavement disorder. Psychiatry Res 2021; 300:113916. [PMID: 33836468 PMCID: PMC8479443 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Mourning is a coping-with-loss stage that prevents grief from becoming pathologic, i.e., complicated grief (CG) syndrome and persistent complex bereavement disorder (PCBD), recently included in international classification systems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, to contain virus spread, several countries adopted/adopt the prohibition of mourning rituals (funeral ceremonies/visiting to cemeteries), so that people were/are unable to give their hospitalized relatives the latest goodbye. Such measures can lead vulnerable individuals to develop CG and PCBD. We critically discuss literature-based risk factors for and protective resources against the onset of these conditions since the start of the pandemic and analyze prevention strategies to inform public health programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Diolaiuti
- University of Pisa, Department Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Italy
| | - Donatella Marazziti
- University of Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, Italy; Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy; BRF Foundation Lucca, Italy.
| | - Maria Francesca Beatino
- University of Pisa, Department Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Italy
| | - Federico Mucci
- University of Siena, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Italy
| | - Andrea Pozza
- University of Siena, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Italy
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Routen A, Darko N, Willis A, Miksza J, Khunti K. "It's so tough for us now" - COVID-19 has negatively impacted religious practices relating to death among minority ethnic groups. Public Health 2021; 194:146-148. [PMID: 33906088 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and prevention measures on religious practices after death, by ethnic grouping, in an opportunistic/convenience sample of UK adults. METHODS We distributed a questionnaire online and in hard copy between May 1 and June 18, 2020, via social media, post and face-to-face contact in Leicester, a multi-ethnic city in the UK. RESULTS From 980 adults providing consent, 665 completed some or all survey items and provided ethnicity data. More than double the proportion of Black and South Asian individuals reported religious practices relating to death, burials or funerals being affected by COVID-19 than White groups. Of the 151 participants reporting practices being impacted, a greater proportion of ethnic minority groups reported restricted access/alteration to eight death-related practices (e.g., funeral attendance) compared with White groups (significantly different for all practices, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK has negatively impacted on the ability to conduct religious practices after death in all ethnic groups, but the impact appears greater in ethnic minority populations than in White groups. There is a need for further qualitative research on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on death and burial practices of minority ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Routen
- Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK.
| | - N Darko
- Centre for Black and Minority Ethnic Health, University of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK; Stephen Lawrence Research Centre, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK.
| | - A Willis
- Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK; Centre for Black and Minority Ethnic Health, University of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK.
| | - J Miksza
- Leicester Real World Evidence Unit, Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK.
| | - K Khunti
- Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK; Centre for Black and Minority Ethnic Health, University of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK; Leicester Real World Evidence Unit, Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK.
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42
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Testoni I, Zanellato S, Iacona E, Marogna C, Cottone P, Bingaman K. Mourning and Management of the COVID-19 Health Emergency in the Priestly Community: Qualitative Research in a Region of Northern Italy Severely Affected by the Pandemic. Front Public Health 2021; 9:622592. [PMID: 33643991 PMCID: PMC7907176 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.622592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is causing major social changes to which significant psychological effects are linked. During the first phase of the pandemic wave in Italy, whilst there was insufficient information about the phenomenon and the strategies to safeguard the population against it, many categories of people, whose professions required constant contact with the public, were affected by the contagion. Aims: The literature has shown how religiousness can support the management of stress due to diseases and health risks. In relation to this, the current study wanted to investigate how priests managed the early stages of the pandemic. This work, therefore, aimed to investigate the psychological experiences related to the contagion and the eventual death of colleagues as well as the resilience strategies activated by the priests during the process. Participants: The research involved 12 Catholic priests, all male and aged between 42 and 63 years. They came from the same pastoral community in one of the regions in Northern Italy that were most affected during the first phase of the pandemic. Those ministers had been constantly in contact with the faithful of their parishes since the breakout of the virus. Methodology: A qualitative research design was adopted, and in-depth interviews were conducted. The dialogues aimed at investigating the deep, personal and relational experiences of the priests, together with their concerns and the tools they adopted to manage anxiety. The texts obtained from the interviews were subjected to thematic analysis. Results: The areas studied concerned the experiences of the participants during the lockdown, the implications of social distancing and lack of funeral rituality and, finally, the importance of prayer as a resilience factor. Conclusions: In the current scenario dominated by the pandemic, it is significant and stimulating to understand and reflect on the functions and roles of the experiences of faith, particularly the act of elaborating the process of mourning due to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Testoni
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.,Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Silvia Zanellato
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Erika Iacona
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Cristina Marogna
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Cottone
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Kirk Bingaman
- Graduate School of Religion and Religious Education, Fordham University, New York, NY, United States
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Abstract
A review of the literature on adaptation to bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic was conducted to assess the current state of knowledge. Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases were searched for studies published during the first 6 months of the COVID-19 outbreak. 44 articles were included in the review. Narrative synthesis showed that knowledge was largely based on expert assessments of prior bereavement research and professional experience; there is so far absence of empirical evidence linking features of COVID-19 bereavement situations to health outcomes. Severe negative consequences have been consistently predicted by authors. There is still relatively little consideration of positive or compensatory processes or the possibility that these could alleviate the effect of the shocking, traumatic circumstances. With two notable exceptions, there has been lack of attention to the role of theoretical models for guiding research and practice. A theoretical perspective (the Dual Process Model, DPM) was applied to the information derived from the available articles. Two features of the DPM framework illustrated its relevance: 1. It enables systematic assessment of the range of loss- and restoration-related challenges for the bereaved; 2. It speaks for extension of psychotherapeutic intervention to manage secondary, restoration- as well as primary, loss-oriented stressors; studies have demonstrated that this may increase the effectiveness of intervention. Directions for future research and DPM application are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Stroebe
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Henk Schut
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Weaver MS, Jurgens A, Neumann ML, Schalley SM, Kellas JK, Navaneethan H, Tullis J. Actual Solidarity through Virtual Support: A Pilot Descriptive Study of an Online Support Group for Bereaved Parents. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1161-1166. [PMID: 33404324 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hospital-based support for bereaved parents is regarded as best practice. Little is known about parental perceptions or programmatic potential of online grief support. Objectives: To learn from bereaved parent participants' experiences with an online support group to include perceptions of technology acceptance and group communication dynamics. Design: Descriptive study reporting on an eight-week online bereavement support group offered during summer 2020. Subjects and Setting: Inclusive of six bereaved parent participants in the Midwestern United States. Measurements: Post-intervention survey consisting of 49-items with the Technology Acceptance Model and Other Communicated Perspective-Taking Ability instruments embedded. Results: Five bereaved mothers and one father (mean age 32 years) residing an average 126 miles from hospital participated in an online support group in a timeframe seven months to one year from the death of their child. Intensity of grief emotion (5/6 parents) and physical distance (4/6 parents) were notable barriers to in-person visits to the hospital, where bereavement support was to be offered. Parents uniformly reported feeling benefit from the program and satisfaction with the program. Respondents self-reported gaining improved communication (4/6 parents), coping (3/6 parents), peer support (3/6 parents), education (3/6 parents), and emotional expression (3/6 parents). Mean scores on the technology acceptance and communication experiences scales were 4.7/5. The virtual format was an acceptable modality with perceived supportive interpersonal communication dynamics. Conclusion: Pediatric palliative care teams may consider the offering of online bereavement support groups. Further research is warranted on the impact and outcomes of online bereavement support groups for bereaved parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghann S Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | | | - Marie L Neumann
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Sabrina M Schalley
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Jody Koenig Kellas
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Hema Navaneethan
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Julianne Tullis
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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45
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Matsuda Y, Takebayashi Y, Nakajima S, Ito M. Managing Grief of Bereaved Families During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Japan. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:637237. [PMID: 34149471 PMCID: PMC8211722 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.637237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This commentary discussed the psychological issues related to bereavement in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, we addressed two aspects in the context of Japanese culture. The first relates to the psychological distress of members of the bereaved family who could not visit their loved ones who had COVID-19 before or after their death. The second relates to the bereavement experience of those who were unable to be with their loved ones when the end came, even though they did not have COVID-19, because of restrictions on visiting hospitals. We seek to focus on the need for a support system for bereaved families to help them through the grieving process, and discuss end-of-life care in such circumstances, and in the post-COVID-19 era, as in current day Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Matsuda
- National Center of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy and Research, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Japan
| | - Yoshitake Takebayashi
- National Center of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy and Research, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Japan.,Department Health Risk Communication, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Satomi Nakajima
- Department of Human Sciences, Faculty of Human Sciences, Musashino University, Koto-ku, Japan
| | - Masaya Ito
- National Center of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy and Research, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Japan
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