Follow-up of patients who seek treatment for grief

Abstract

Introduction. Based on several contributions and studies on evolutive aspects of grief, this study aims to focus on the two-year follow-up of patients from the Community Mental Health Service of Parla who came to the clinic in relationship with grief.

Methods. Based upon a previous research, the authors have performed a follow-up study at two years in a sample of 51 patients, carried out by a telephone interview that examined subjective improvement, coping strategies and grieving process, biographical continuity and later life events.

Results. Two years after the first visit, most of the patients considered that they had coped well with the loss and were able to resume their normal activities. They ranked their clinical situation as «much better». One out of every four reported a partial or marked detention in their biographical course.

Conclusions. In the long term evolution of a visit due to grief, a positive outcome might be expected in the most of the cases. Factors associated with a worst outcome are a problematic bond with the deceased, and the son/daughter loss. Positive outcome was associated with social support and psychotherapy.