Adolescent and young adult carers facing the loss of their cared-for relative: An exploratory qualitative study

To date, few studies have explored the grief experience of young people after a caregiving period. This research aims to explore and describe the psychological processes in bereaved youth after a caregiving period and identify their needs. Sixteen YCs and YACs under the age of 25 participated in this exploratory qualitative study. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted and subjected to thematic content analysis. Findings are structured around four main themes: the emotional and behavioral responses during their grieving process, the factors complicating their bereavement, their psychological adjustment following the loss, and the importance of support during this period. The grief experienced by YCs shares similarities with other young people, but it appears to be marked by prolonged challenges (during the caregiving period and after the loss), requiring long-term adjustment processes. This study reveals specific support among bereaved young carers and emphasizes the importance of adapted support beyond the caregiving period through improved recognition and timely access to mental health support.