'Special death': Living with bereavement by drug-related death in Ireland. Issue 10 (26th November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lambert, Sharon; O'Callaghan, Daniel; Frost, Nollaig
• Is Part Of: Death studies. Volume 46:Issue 10(2022)
• Page Start: 2335
• Page End: 2345
• Publication Date: 2022-11-26
• Subjects: Death -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Terminal care -- Periodicals; Death -- Moral and ethical aspects -- Periodicals; 306.9
• DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2021.1939461
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0748-1187

Abstract

Abstract: This paper explores the impact of complicated grief on the family system following the drug-related death of a family member. Drug-related deaths are rife with moral stigmas, and those left behind often carry an emotional burden laden with shame and guilt. 17 bereaved family members were interviewed using semi-structured interviews and transcripts were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three core themes were generated: Renegotiation of Relationships; Experiencing Complex Emotions; and Adjusting to a New Reality. The findings demonstrate that this population experience great difficulty in processing their grief as they struggle with family breakdown, navigating supports and stigma.