Evaluating a bereavement support group.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility of an 8-week bereavement support group in a general hospital setting.

METHODS

We assessed grief and mood before and after an 8-week bereavement support group and compared dropouts to completers. Forty-seven participants filled out mood and grief questionnaires. Scores were compared with norms, then baseline and follow-up scores were analyzed by paired t tests. Fifteen dropouts' scores were compared with completers' baseline scores.

RESULTS

Participants' grief improved, as did depression in women but not men. Women dropouts scored significantly higher on Anger, Tension/Anxiety.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS

Findings suggest men and women respond differently to bereavement groups. Bereaved individuals with high anger and tension may require interventions addressing their particular needs, with a focus on acceptance of negative emotions.