Coping Strategies of Bereaved Families: Basis for Proposed Healthy Coping Skills Activities

This study aimed to determine the levels of coping strategies among bereaved families across the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions, as well as the significant differences and relationships between coping strategies and respondents' profile variables. Specifically, the study sought to assess how bereaved families manage grief and emotional distress following the loss of a loved one. The study employed a descriptive-correlational quantitative research design, with a survey questionnaire as the primary data-gathering instrument. A purposive referral sampling technique was employed, involving sixty-five (65) bereaved family members from selected barangays in Manaoag, Pangasinan. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents were 20–39 years old, female, married, Roman Catholic, college-educated, and from middle-income families. The overall level of coping strategies among bereaved families was interpreted as “Moderately High,” indicating that the respondents were generally able to cope with grief through physical, psychological, social, and spiritual mechanisms. Significant differences in coping strategies were found when respondents were grouped by sex and religion. In contrast, no significant differences were observed across age, civil status, educational attainment, and family monthly income. Furthermore, sex was found to have a significant relationship with coping strategies. The study concluded that healthy coping strategies are essential in promoting emotional recovery, resilience, and adjustment among bereaved families. The findings further support the implementation of healthy coping skills activities, grief counseling, bereavement support groups, and community-based mental health interventions to strengthen coping abilities during bereavement.