SPOUSAL BEREAVEMENT AMONG WOMEN IN TÜRKİYE: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF POST-LOSS AND COPING EXPERIENCES

Introduction: The loss of a spouse is considered one of the most distressing life events, linked to various psychological, social, and physical challenges.As such, it represents a significant stressor that may result in conditions such as depression and prolonged or complicated grief.This study aims to explore the emotional and practical experiences of spousal bereavement among women in Trkiye, focusing on how they navigate grief and cope with these challenges.Method: This study investigated the mourning process of eight women (age range 42-59) living in Trkiye using in-depth semi-structured interviews.The inclusion criterion is having lost a spouse at least six months ago.The data gathered from the interviews were analyzed by using phenomenological analysis in MAXQDA 22. Results: Two main themes emerged: post-loss experiences and coping experiences.The theme of post-loss experiences consists of two sub-themes: intense emotions and increased responsibility.Women expressed feelings of emptiness and pain after the loss of their spouse, as well as shock and paralysis.Some of them stated that they could not remember the first moments they experienced due to the shock.Participants also mentioned depressive symptoms such as hopelessness about the future, feeling disconnected from friends and family, and loss of a sense of pleasure.In addition, women talked about their increased responsibilities after the loss.Participants were worried about having to take on all the responsibilities, especially those related to the house and children, and it was difficult for them to think about these responsibilities along with the pain they experienced after losing their husbands.Another emerging theme was coping experiences, consisting of three sub-themes: receiving psychological support, social support, and religious beliefs and rituals.Some participants mentioned that psychotherapy and psychiatric medication support were beneficial for them.Others did not receive psychotherapy or medication support, resorted to religious coping mechanisms during their mourning process, and shared their pain with friends and family.Participants reported a sense of relaxation and spiritual peace with the small communities they formed with their friends and family members and the religious rituals they performed there.Conclusion: The findings provide insights for mental health professionals working with bereaved individuals, highlighting the role of both emotional and practical support in the grieving process.