Anticipatory grief during COVID-19: a commentary

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Palliative Care

Background:

• Fatal diagnoses like COVID-19 can trigger severe reactions in patients and families.
• Anticipatory grief (AG) and fear of death are natural responses, particularly during pandemics.
• Existing research on AG primarily focuses on cancer and dementia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the heightened risk and impact of anticipatory grief during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To underscore the need for integrated mental health, palliative, and psychiatric care strategies.
• To offer recommendations for healthcare professionals on managing anticipatory grief.

Main Methods:

• This is a commentary, not an empirical study.
• It synthesizes existing knowledge on anticipatory grief.
• It discusses the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on grief.

Main Results:

• The COVID-19 pandemic may significantly increase the incidence and intensity of anticipatory grief.
• There is a critical need to incorporate grief management into pandemic response plans.
• Healthcare professionals require specific guidance for supporting patients and families experiencing AG.

Conclusions:

• Addressing anticipatory grief is crucial for holistic patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Proactive mental health and palliative care interventions are essential.
• Healthcare systems must allocate resources to support patients, families, and staff coping with grief.