Loss, grief and depression: potential risk factors in grief-related depression

摘要

Objective: The present study investigates the association of depression with grief-related risk factors among bereaved individuals. Methods: The data were collected from 161 bereaved individuals who lost a first-degree relative or a partner within the past six months. A highly semi-structured interview conducted to collect the data across several domains, including demographic variables, the relationship with deceased, the mode of death, past-traumatic experiences, and general life stressors. The Beck Depression Scales was used to gather depression scores. Chi-square tests (with continuity correction for 2x2 tables) were used to examine for possible differences in the categorical variables, and multiple regression analysis was used to examine the grief-related risk factors for depression. Results: Factors such as sudden death, conflicted relationship with the deceased, witnessing the death of a loved one, and receiving social support have been associated with mourning depression. Frequency of depression was significantly more prevalent in participants who lost a loved one suddenly, had negative relationship with deceased and had a lack of family and social support. The frequency of depression was found higher in females. Conclusion: The conflict resolutions play a significant role in coping with grief and related psychopathology. The clinical treatment methods need to address these issues and ought to emphasize the use of social support in treating grief-related depression.