Coping with AIDS-related bereavement in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

This qualitative study explored how South Africans view and cope with AIDS-related loss. In-depth interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 18 bereaved adults living in KwaZulu-Natal, a province that has been severely impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Data were analysed according to the conventions of qualitative research. Participants felt quite powerless and accepted AIDS-related deaths as a part of their life. They tried to reframe their loss as something positive; constructing meaning from their loss. Coping strategies included: suppressing emotions; seeking comfort and strength from one's spiritual beliefs; and maintaining an optimistic attitude about the future. These themes are consistent with research on coping with AIDS-related bereavement in the West. Further research is needed to confirm these themes in the South African context using culturally appropriate measures. Future interventions must be tailored to the local context and must take into consideration the limited availability of funds for mental health services in South Africa.