Participation in bereavement groups during societal crises: practical engagement and psychological experiences

Bereavement groups offering support to people after a loss can be adapted and conducted in alternative ways due to societal crises. This study aimed to explore the experiences of bereaved people participating in in-person bereavement groups during the pandemic, as an illustration of how offering bereavement support can be adapted in response to societal crises.

Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed using content analysis.

The main category identified was 'the need to tell my story in times of isolation' emphasising the need to meet others in in-person meetings. Five sub-categories emerged: 'supportive storytelling for myself and for others', 'impact of the pandemic', 'role of the counsellors', 'homogeneity and design of the groups' and 'life after bereavement groups'.

Participants were clear that they preferred in-person bereavement groups. Meetings outdoors were made possible through the counsellors' prudence and imagination. Increased support from healthcare providers can reduce prolonged grief.