Grieving in isolation: lived experiences of black african youths during the covid-19 pandemic in rural Limpopo

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many people’s lives, especially youths who have lost their loved ones. The current study explored the experiences of black African youth grieving in isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. A qualitative approach using phenomenological research design was used. A sample of five focus groups and nine participants was selected through purposive sampling, and data was analysed using interpretive phenomenological analysis. The results revealed that youths faced restrictions during COVID-19 when burying their loved ones and were subjected to unusual burial practices. The results further showed that youths lacked social support during burials due to COVID-19 restrictions. Similarly, Neimeyer’s theory shows that social networks are key in the process of grief, providing emphasis on community support. This study recommended strategies such as seeking professional help and considering burial customs during pandemics when developing policies to address grief.