Beyond the Pandemic: A Phenomenological Journey Through Grief in Bereaved Families Four Years Post-COVID-19 Restrictions.

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the lived experiences of families who lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic after four years. This was a phenomenological study. 17 individuals were interviewed. The interviews were done from April 15 to May 30, 2024. An in-depth semi-structured interview was used to collect data. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Colaizzi's approach. Four main categories and 18 sub-categories were extracted. Categories include emotional and physical reactions; rumination; social reactions, and sources of support for bereaved families during COVID-19. Additionally, the findings revealed that the repercussions of bereavement, especially rumination due to social restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic, are still profound and enduring for families, affecting their psychological, emotional, and social well-being. The long-lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic underscore the necessity for increased awareness and understanding within communities to foster supportive environments for those grieving.