1
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Moya-Salazar J, Soto E, Cañari B, Goicochea EA, Zuñiga N, Jaime-Quispe A, Contreras-Pulache H. Prolonged grief in relatives of deceased patients due to COVID-19 is associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms: A survey-based study in Peru. SAGE Open Med 2024; 12:20503121241245069. [PMID: 38628305 PMCID: PMC11020738 DOI: 10.1177/20503121241245069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Funeral practices have undergone significant changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, the death of a family member from this disease has altered the typical course of the bereavement process. Therefore, this study seeks to determine the relationship between the levels of grief, anxiety, and depression in relatives of patients who died from COVID-19 in Peru. Methods A total of 250 volunteers were obtained, but after applying the inclusion criteria and not being able to contact five of them, the sample consisted of 115 participants over 18 years of age who lost a family member to COVID-19 between 2020 and 2021. They developed the Prolonged Grief Questionnaire-13 and the Zung Anxiety and Depression Questionnaires, in virtual surveys using Google FormTM (Google, CA). Results Our analysis revealed that all cases of anxiety (18.3%) were present in individuals experiencing prolonged grief (76.5%), while 49.5% (57/115) of participants exhibited symptoms of depression. Furthermore, we identified a significant association between prolonged grief and both anxiety (p = 0.005) and depression (p < 0.001). Prolonged grief predominantly affected females (45.2%) and individuals aged 31-40 years (28.7%) (p < 0.001). Regarding predictors of anxiety symptoms, we found that both age group (p = 0.035) and grief (p < 0.001) played significant roles. Gender (p = 0.019) and grief (p < 0.001) emerged as predictors of depression, while gender alone predicted grief in relatives of individuals who succumbed to COVID-19 (p = 0.019). Conclusion Our results suggest a clear association between prolonged grief and mental health issues among relatives of COVID-19 patients who have passed away. Consequently, it is imperative to provide comprehensive psychological and spiritual support throughout the grieving process, aiming to mitigate the negative impact of traumatic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeel Moya-Salazar
- Digital Transformation Center, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
| | - Elizabeth Soto
- Faculties of Health Science, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
| | - Betsy Cañari
- Faculties of Health Science, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
| | - Eliane A Goicochea
- Faculties of Health Science, Universidad Tecnológica del Perú, Lima, Peru
| | - Nahomi Zuñiga
- Faculties of Health Science, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
| | - Alexis Jaime-Quispe
- Faculties of Health Science, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
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Akmese I, Foreman T, Brooks G. Bereavement During and Not During the Pandemic in Terms of Complicated Grief and Social Support. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024:302228241240944. [PMID: 38502887 DOI: 10.1177/00302228241240944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Mandated measures to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus (e.g., social distancing and travel restrictions) led to isolation and reshaped the dying process as well as grief rituals for loved ones of deceased individuals due to COVID-19 and other causes of death. The purpose of this study was to investigate the difference between those who lost a loved one during and not during the global pandemic in terms of complicated grief and perceived social support. A cross-sectional quantitative approach was employed, surveying 580 individuals, all of whom had experienced the loss of a loved one. Our findings suggest that bereavement during the COVID-19 era uniquely intensified the Complicated Grief experience. However, the perceived social support did not vary based on the timing of the bereavement. The strengths, limitations, and future research directions are further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Akmese
- Department of Counseling and Higher Education, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Tamarine Foreman
- Department of Counseling and Higher Education, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Gordon Brooks
- Department of Educational Studies, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
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3
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Koliouli F, Canellopoulos L, Stasinopoulou I, Risvas C, Sani L, Bacqué MF. Experiences of grief and mourning practices of Greek bereaved adults during the pandemic: A qualitative approach. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38293741 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2309451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
This pilot study aims to explore the experiences of grief and mourning practices of bereaved adults during the pandemic. Eleven adults who have lost a loved one since March 2020 participated in a semi-structured interview exploring the experiences of grief and mourning. Data were analyzed through Thematic Analysis. Participants experienced contrasting psycho-emotional reactions to loss, and they highlighted the restriction of being physically present to the dying loved one as the hardest aspect of losing someone during COVID-19. Moreover, they identified challenging factors during the funeral practices: the small number of mourners during ceremonies, abstinence from hugging and touching each other as a form of consolation, and wearing masks, which further made the ceremony impersonal. Finally, the alteration of the paying respects process has contributed to the mourners' experienced stress and sorrow. Findings are discussed per the current literature and recommendations based on cultural diversities are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Koliouli
- Assistant Professor in Developmental Psychology: social and emotional development, Department of Early Childhood Education, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Lissy Canellopoulos
- Psychoanalyst, Associate Professor in Clinical Psychology, Psychology Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Zografou, Greece
| | - Irene Stasinopoulou
- BSc Psychology, Psychology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Zografou, Greece
| | - Charalampos Risvas
- Clinical Psychologist, Psychology Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Zografou, Greece
| | - Livia Sani
- Clinical Psychology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marie-Frédérique Bacqué
- Psychoanalyst, Professor in Clinical Psychopathology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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4
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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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5
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Harrop E, Medeiros Mirra R, Goss S, Longo M, Byrne A, Farnell DJJ, Seddon K, Penny A, Machin L, Sivell S, Selman LE. Prolonged grief during and beyond the pandemic: factors associated with levels of grief in a four time-point longitudinal survey of people bereaved in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1215881. [PMID: 37794891 PMCID: PMC10546414 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1215881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has been a devastating and enduring mass-bereavement event, with uniquely difficult sets of circumstances experienced by people bereaved at this time. However, little is known about the long-term consequences of these experiences, including the prevalence of Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) and other conditions in pandemic-bereaved populations. Methods A longitudinal survey of people bereaved in the UK between 16 March 2020 and 2 January 2021, with data collected at baseline (n = 711), c. 8 (n = 383), 13 (n = 295), and 25 (n = 185) months post-bereavement. Using measures of Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) (Traumatic Grief Inventory), grief vulnerability (Adult Attitude to Grief Scale), and social support (Inventory of Social Support), this analysis examines how participant characteristics, characteristics of the deceased and pandemic-related circumstances (e.g., restricted visiting, social isolation, social support) are associated with grief outcomes, with a focus on symptoms of PGD. Results At baseline, 628 (88.6%) of participants were female, with a mean age of 49.5 (SD 12.9). 311 (43.8%) deaths were from confirmed/suspected COVID-19. Sample demographics were relatively stable across time points. 34.6% of participants met the cut-off for indicated PGD at c. 13 months bereaved and 28.6% at final follow-up. Social isolation and loneliness in early bereavement and lack of social support over time strongly contributed to higher levels of prolonged grief symptoms, while feeling well supported by healthcare professionals following the death was associated with reduced levels of prolonged grief symptoms. Characteristics of the deceased most strongly associated with lower levels of prolonged grief symptoms, were a more distant relationship (e.g., death of a grandparent), an expected death and death occurring in a care-home. Participant characteristics associated with higher levels of prolonged grief symptoms included low level of formal education and existence of medical conditions. Conclusion Results suggest higher than expected levels of PGD compared with pre-pandemic times, with important implications for bereavement policy, provision and practice now (e.g., strengthening of social and specialist support) and in preparedness for future pandemics and mass-bereavement events (e.g., guidance on infection control measures and rapid support responses).
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Harrop
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | - Silvia Goss
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mirella Longo
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony Byrne
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kathy Seddon
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Penny
- National Bereavement Alliance, London, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Machin
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie Sivell
- Division of Population Medicine, Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy E. Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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6
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Asgari M, Ghasemzadeh M, Alimohamadi A, Sakhaei S, Killikelly C, Nikfar E. Investigation into Grief Experiences of the Bereaved During the Covid-19 Pandemic. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231173075. [PMID: 37184963 PMCID: PMC10189522 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231173075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the current study was to investigate the grief experiences of people affected by COVID-19. The study adopted a qualitative design of descriptive phenomenology. Fifteen adults who had lost a family member during the COVID-19 pandemic were selected as the sample through the purposive sampling method until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and the Colaizzi analysis method. Six main themes (i.e., unexpressed grief, psychosomatic reactions, negative emotions, family problems, and social and occupational problems) were extracted. Data analysis showed that complex disenfranchised grief is the pervasive consequence of the COVID-19 experience. According to the findings, participants experienced disenfranchised grief during the loss of their loved ones due to the COVID-19 disease, which was a complex, painful experience accompanied by negative emotions and family, work, and social tensions. This grief is accompanied by more severe and prolonged symptoms, making it difficult for the bereaved to return to normal life. In unexpressed grieving, there are intense feelings of grief, pain, separation, despair, emptiness, low self-esteem, bitterness, or longing for the presence of the deceased. This grief originated from the conditions of quarantine and physical distance on the one hand, which required the control of the outbreak of the COVID-19 disease, and on the other hand, the cultural-religious context of the Iranian people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Asgari
- Department of Educational Psychology, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Ghasemzadeh
- Department of Clinical and General
Psychology, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asgar Alimohamadi
- Department of Psychology and Education of
Exceptional Children, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shiva Sakhaei
- Department of Educational Science and
Counselling, College of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Clare Killikelly
- Department of Psychology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry,
University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elham Nikfar
- Department of Clinical and General
Psychology, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
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7
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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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8
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Selman LE, Farnell DJJ, Longo M, Goss S, Torrens-Burton A, Seddon K, Mayland CR, Machin L, Byrne A, Harrop EJ. Factors Associated With Higher Levels of Grief and Support Needs Among People Bereaved During the Pandemic: Results from a National Online Survey. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221144925. [PMID: 36542774 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221144925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
We identified factors associated with higher levels of grief and support needs among 711 people bereaved during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK (deaths 16 March 2020-2 January 2021). An online survey assessed grief using the Adult Attitude to Grief (AAG) scale, which calculates an overall index of vulnerability (IOV) (range 0-36), and practical and emotional support needs in 13 domains. Participants' mean age was 49.5 (SD 12.9); 628 (88.6%) female. Mean age of deceased 72.2 (SD 16.1). 311 (43.8%) deaths were from confirmed/suspected COVID-19. High overall levels of grief and support needs were observed; 28.2% exhibited severe vulnerability (index of vulnerability ≥24). Grief and support needs were higher for close relationships with the deceased (vs. more distant) and reported social isolation and loneliness (p < 0.001), and lower when age of deceased was above 40-50. Other associated factors were place of death and health professional support post-death (p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy E Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Mirella Longo
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Silvia Goss
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anna Torrens-Burton
- PRIME Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Catriona R Mayland
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Anthony Byrne
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Emily J Harrop
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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9
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Tei S, Fujino J. The educational value of sense of coherence for grief care. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1037637. [PMID: 36420379 PMCID: PMC9676356 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1037637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shisei Tei
- Department of Psychiatry, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Institute of Applied Brain Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan
- School of Human and Social Sciences, Tokyo International University, Saitama, Japan
- *Correspondence: Shisei Tei
| | - Junya Fujino
- Department of Psychiatry, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Khan TA, Mohsin A, Din S, Qayum S, Farooqi I. Last Honors and Life Experiences of Bereaved Families in the Context of COVID-19 in Kashmir: A Qualitative Inquiry About Exclusion, Family Trauma, and Other Issues. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221134205. [PMID: 36286536 PMCID: PMC9606636 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221134205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the changing character of the last honours of those who died of COVID-19 in Kashmir and the life experiences of the families of the deceased. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to collect information from 21 participants. Using qualitative data analysis approaches, five key themes were identified vis-à-vis the impact of COVID-19 on burial rituals and customs; effects on bereaved families, shades of grief, bereavement care, community response, and coping with loss. Based on examining the pandemic-induced changes related to customs and rituals around death, the study found that the bereaved family members were in danger of marginalization, economic burdens, psychological traumas, and overall reduced quality of life. This study would be a credible addition to the existing literature on death practices as there is a shortage of research on funeral rituals during the post-pandemic period in Kashmir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanveer Ahmad Khan
- International Socioeconomics Laboratory, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Abdul Mohsin
- Department of Political Science, Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sumiya Din
- Department of Social Work, University of Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Shaista Qayum
- Department of Sociology, GDC, Jammu and Kashmir, India
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11
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Moya-Salazar J, Zuñiga N, Cañari B, Jaime-Quispe A, Chicoma-Flores K, Contreras-Pulache H. The End of Life Accompanied by COVID-19: A Qualitative Study on Grief During the First OutBreak In Peru (Part I). OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221134424. [PMID: 36226870 PMCID: PMC9561526 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221134424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Due to the massive deaths and high level of contagion brought about by COVID-19, burial practices and the way we bury our dead are being affected by SARS-CoV-2 confinement and control measures. Here, we aimed to examine the changing of death, dying, and mourning during the first wave and quarantine applied in Peru with the arrival of COVID-19 in 2020. Using a qualitative approach, 15 participants who lost a family member because of COVID-19 were interviewed by telephone and video call. Our results revealed that death in isolation, the loss of rituals, and the farewell to relatives have dramatically affected family members. Peruvian funeral practices were altered by health provisions, making it a challenge to accompany relatives at the end of life. This way of coping with death can affect family wellbeing, for which no interventions have yet been proposed to improve the quality of life during bereavement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeel Moya-Salazar
- School of Medicine, Faculties of
Health Science, Universidad Norbert
Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Hospital Nacional Docente Madre Niño
San Bartolomé, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
| | - Nahomi Zuñiga
- School of Medicine, Faculties of
Health Science, Universidad Norbert
Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
| | - Betsy Cañari
- School of Medicine, Faculties of
Health Science, Universidad Norbert
Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
| | - Alexis Jaime-Quispe
- School of Medicine, Faculties of
Health Science, Universidad Norbert
Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Qualitative Unit, Nesh Hubbs, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Hans Contreras-Pulache
- School of Medicine, Faculties of
Health Science, Universidad Norbert
Wiener, Lima, Peru
- South America Center for Education
and Research in Public Health, Universidad Norbert
Wiener, Lima, Peru
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12
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Harrop E, Goss S, Longo M, Seddon K, Torrens-Burton A, Sutton E, Farnell DJ, Penny A, Nelson A, Byrne A, Selman LE. Parental perspectives on the grief and support needs of children and young people bereaved during the COVID-19 pandemic: qualitative findings from a national survey. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:177. [PMID: 36210432 PMCID: PMC9548427 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01066-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, many children and young people have experienced the death of close family members, whilst also facing unprecedented disruption to their lives. This study aimed to investigate the experiences and support needs of bereaved children and young people from the perspective of their parents and guardians. Methods We analysed cross-sectional qualitative free-text data from a survey of adults bereaved in the UK during the pandemic. Participants were recruited via media, social media, national associations and community/charitable organisations. Thematic analysis was conducted on free text data collected from parent/guardian participants in response to a survey question on the bereavement experiences and support needs of their children. Results Free-text data from 104 parent/guardian participants was included. Three main themes were identified: the pandemic-related challenges and struggles experienced by children and young people; family support and coping; and support from schools and services. Pandemic-challenges include the impacts of being separated from the relative prior to their death, isolation from peers and other family members, and disruption to daily routines and wider support networks. Examples were given of effective family coping and communication, but also of difficulties relating to parental grief and children’s existing mental health problems. Schools and bereavement organisations’ provision of specialist support was valued, but there was evidence of unmet need, with some participants reporting a lack of access to specialist grief or mental health support. Conclusion Children and young people have faced additional strains and challenges associated with pandemic bereavement. We recommend resources and initiatives that facilitate supportive communication within family and school settings, adequate resourcing of school and community-based specialist bereavement/mental health services, and increased information and signposting to the support that is available. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-022-01066-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Harrop
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, 8th Floor Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park Way, CF14 4YS, Cardiff, UK.
| | - Silvia Goss
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, 8th Floor Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park Way, CF14 4YS, Cardiff, UK
| | - Mirella Longo
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, 8th Floor Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park Way, CF14 4YS, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kathy Seddon
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, 8th Floor Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park Way, CF14 4YS, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anna Torrens-Burton
- PRIME Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Eileen Sutton
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Alison Penny
- National Bereavement Alliance/Childhood Bereavement Network, London, UK
| | - Annmarie Nelson
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, 8th Floor Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park Way, CF14 4YS, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anthony Byrne
- Marie Curie Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, 8th Floor Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park Way, CF14 4YS, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lucy E Selman
- Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, UK
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