Bereavement Service Preferences of Surviving Family Members: Variation among Next of Kin with Depression and...

Research indicates that bereavement services reduce distress and support adjustment in the bereaved, particularly those experiencing significant levels of depression or grief. However, the service use of bereaved individuals and whether utilization differs among those experiencing depression and complicated grief currently remain unclear. Research is needed to clarify the preferences of the bereaved, including specific bereaved subgroups.

The purpose of this study was to explore the bereavement service preferences of bereaved family members whose loved one died in the hospital and identify group differences in service use among individuals with and without depression and complicated grief, considering time since the death of the patient.

In this cross-sectional study, self-report data were collected from family members primarily between 3 and 18 months following the death of the patient in the hospital.

Academic medical center.

We explored helpfulness ratings and actual and projected service utilization of a comprehensive list of hospital and community bereavement services, and compared findings between those with and without depression and complicated grief, considering timing since patient death.

Services receiving the highest helpfulness ratings by the entire sample included time alone with the deceased, a quiet room to be alone after the death, sympathy cards from hospital staff, memorial services, chaplain support before/during time of death, an educational grief booklet, grief book recommendations, a check-in phone call from hospital staff, individual counseling, and a relationship-specific support group. Individuals with depression and complicated grief reported a greater willingness to utilize specific services, including a memorial website, support groups, a holiday workshop, and individual/family psychotherapy.

Findings indicate a difference in the projected service use of the bereaved experiencing depression and/or complicated grief. Follow-up screenings 6-12 months post-bereavement are recommended to identify those in need of formal psychosocial support.