Predicting factors of complicated grief in Iranians after COVID-19 losses: A descriptive–correlational study
-
Azam Eshaghian Dorcheh
,
Hadis Ashrafizadeh
,
Fatemeh Khademi
,
Salman Barasteh
,
Arndt Büssing
,
Klaus Baumann
,
Mahmood Salesi
,
Mohadese Babaie
,
Maryam Karami
,
Mitra Jaras
,
Maryam Rassouli
Abstract
Background & Aim: Understanding the predicting factors that influence complicated grief (CG) among Iranians after COVID-19 losses is critical for developing targeted support and intervention strategies. The purpose of this research was to examine the predictors of complicated grief (CG) among Iranians who had lost a family member during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Materials & Methods: This descriptive–correlational study was undertaken between December 2022 and August 2023. A total of 150 relatives of COVID-19 victims were recruited using convenience sampling, in accordance with the study’s inclusion criteria. Data collection employed the Burdened by Grief and Loss questionnaire, the Inventory of Complicated Grief, the WHO-5 Well-being Index, and a measure of pandemic-related burden. Relationships between variables were analyzed via chi-square tests, Fisher's exact test, and multiple logistic regression. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v. 26 software.
Results: The likelihood of developing CG among women compared to men was 3.77 times higher (p<0.001, OR=3.77 (1.39, 10.27)), and the chance of CG in close family members compared to distant relatives was 4.55 times higher (p<0.001, OR=4.55 (1.73, 11.92)). An increase in psychological well-being score significantly lowered the likelihood of CG in bereaved companions (p<0.001, OR= 0.86 (0.80, 0.92)); however, an increase in being burdened by grief and loss scale significantly augmented the likelihood of CG in bereaved companions (p<0.001, OR=1.11(1.06, 1.16)). However, an increase in the Burdened by Grief and Loss score significantly increased the likelihood of complicated grief in bereaved companions (p<0.001, OR=1.11(1.06, 1.16)). The prevalence of CG in Iranian people who have lost their family members because of COVID-19 was higher compared to similar studies.
Conclusion: According to the results, female gender, close kinship with the deceased, and heavier psychological burden of loss elevated the likelihood of CG, while stronger mental health appeared to buffer against it. Given the key role of nurses in bereavement care and referral, there is a need for structured, supportive interventions and psychological services, ideally provided through clinical guidelines or service packages tailored for vulnerable groups.
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| Issue | Articles in Press | |
| Section | Original Article(s) | |
| Keywords | ||
| grief loss bereavement complicated grief COVID-19 | ||
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