Grant: Operating Grant - PA: Regional Partnership Program : Manitoba

Bereavement following the death of a loved one is a phase of life experienced by almost everyone. It is also a period of vulnerability, with some bereaved persons experiencing considerable emotional difficulties. Our previous study showed that parents who lose a child to suicide are at risk for depression, anxiety, and marital separation in the two years following the death. However, a deeper understanding of the effects of bereavement remains unknown. The current study will examine the effects of sudden death on bereaved relatives in the Manitoba population. Parents who have lost a child to suicide or other sudden accidental cause of death will be invited to complete a telephone survey. The survey will explore their experiences of emotional problems, depression, grief, and support from others. The survey will also ask bereaved parents what treatment they feel they need, and whether they have seen a doctor or other professional. Their responses will be compared to people in the general population to see how the emotional difficulties, treatment needs, and health service use of bereaved parents compares to others. This will provide much needed answers about the health and treatment needs of bereaved people, a group that in the past has not received appropriate treatment services. The findings from this study will therefore help to develop effective treatments for bereaved family members, and thus improve the lives of people who have suffered the sudden death of a loved one.