Complicated Loss: Lived Experience of Family Members Bereaved by COVID-19

Mary Cris  Motas,; Mariflor  Gatchalian,; Christine  Hernandez,; Ma Lorena  Tagala,; Alfredo  Perez Jr.,; Girlie  Sonoron,

Complicated Loss: Lived Experience of Family Members Bereaved by COVID-19

Discipline: Education

Abstract:

This study explored the lived experience of family members bereaved by COVID-19. Qualitative research design with phenomenology as an approach was utilized in the study. This study generated ten (10) superordinate themes which were Sense of Disbelief and Sorrow; Intense and Ambivalent Feelings; Reliance on Family Support and Faith in God; Positive Coping Strategies; Working through Acceptance; Inner Self Change; Realization on the Value of Life, Faith, and Relationships; Positive and Transformative; Positive Outlook in Life; and Awareness of Reality through Negative Situations and Learned Lessons. COVID-19 has indeed altered the way people experience death, grief, and bereavement. Although this reality posed a challenge in the process of grief, bereaved family members still had positive outlook and strong disposition to accept, find meaning in the loss, and move forward in their lives amid pandemic. Finally, this study proposed a community- based bereavement care and psychosocial support program action plan for family members bereaved by COVID-19 to assist them in their grief journey.