“You kind of want the world to stop, and it did”: Shared experiences of widowhood during and following Covid-19
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Widowhood can have a negative impact on health and wellbeing. Social support, extending activities, and group memberships help facilitate adjustment. However, the incidence and negative consequences of widowhood may have been compounded during Covid-19, as the social distancing measures imposed resulted in reduced access to social support and services. This study aimed to explore widowhood experiences during and following the pandemic. The study utilized a phased multi-method design, including focus groups (N = 7), an online survey (N = 22), and a collaborative workshop (N = 5) with participants from England and Wales. Four themes were generated: (1) The transition of widowhood is complex; (2) Covid-19 presented particular challenges; (3) Aspects of the pandemic provided benefits; and (4) Lived experiences can inform recommendations. The findings highlight the need for further exploration of a wider range of widowhood experiences and the development of recommendations to improve support and resources for those widowed to promote positive adjustment.
Source: Death Studies
Institution: Northumbria University
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4417476236