{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: 'Feeling disconnected' - risk factors for PGD and themes in grief counselling during the COVID-19 pandemic. A mixed-method study.
{Author}: Hanauer C;Telaar B;Al-Dawaf N;Rosner R;Doering BK;
{Journal}: Eur J Psychotraumatol
{Volume}: 14
{Issue}: 1
{Year}: 2023
{Factor}: 5.783
{DOI}: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2183006
{Abstract}: Background: Due to its high death toll and measures to curb the pandemic, COVID-19 has affected grieving experiences and may contribute to risk factors for Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD). Persons at risk for PGD often seek support from grief counselling.Objective: To explore whether pandemic-associated risk factors have become more important topics in counselling in a mixed-method design.Method: German grief counsellors (n = 93) rated whether pre-defined risk factors had become more important in grief counselling and indicated additional important themes in an open format.Results: The counsellors indicated that all pre-defined risk factors had become more important, though differing significantly in their frequency. Most frequently endorsed risk factors were lack of social support, limited possibilities to accompany a dying loved one and absence of traditional grief rituals. Qualitative analysis identified three additional themes: the societal impact of the pandemic, its impact on bereavement support and health care, and a chance for personal growth.Conclusions: The pandemic has affected bereavement experiences and grief counselling. Counsellors should monitor grief processes and specific risk factors to provide the best possible care for bereaved people when needed.<BR>Pandemic-associated risk factors for PGD have become more important topics in grief counselling during COVID-19.Risk factors include especially a lack of social support, limited possibility to accompany a dying significant other and absence of traditional grief rituals.Future research is needed to investigate whether monitoring and addressing these risk factors can improve bereavement care.