Resilience in the face of Loss

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacted a tremendous toll on global health and economic stability, significantly affecting families through the loss of loved ones who were primary earners. A phenomenological study was carried out to explore the experience and resilience of families who survived the death of an earning member due to COVID-19 in a selected area of Ganjam. Data were collected through in-depth interviews utilizing a purposive sampling technique with 8 participants from October 20, 2023, to November 6, 2023. NVIVO-14 Free trial version was used for the analysis. The study findings revealed that 62.50% of participants were females aged 31-40, with an equal split between single and married individuals. Notably, 50% were bereaved children of the deceased. A majority, 75%, had achieved higher education and belonged to nuclear families. Hospitalization periods prior to death varied, with income levels largely remaining between Rs 20,001 and Rs 40,000 before and after the loss. All deceased were males, with significant health issues like diabetes mellitus and kidney disease being prevalent. The study identified six major themes—Family Response, Last Ritual, Power Take-up, Relocation, Children and Young Adults, and Family Bereavement Experience—comprising 23 subthemes that encapsulate the complex emotional and logistical challenges faced by the families. These insights highlight the need for more extensive research to better understand and generalize the resilience mechanisms and experiences of similarly affected families.