Stress, Social Support and Quality of Life of Bereaved Spouses in Hong Kong

Abstract

This paper reports the results of a one-time survey of seventy bereaved spouses in Hong Kong which aims to identify the stressors commonly faced, the levels of perceived stress, the types of social support received, their quality of life and the types of service most needed. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Stressors commonly faced by the respondents were: dual parenting roles, the sense of an incomplete family, decision-making without support, upsetting situations, loneliness and financial difficulties. Six respondents (8.6%) felt very or quite stressed in bereavement. Almost half of the respondents perceived quite strong overall support from their families, friends and helping professionals. The respondents' overall quality of life was moderately high. Counselling service and financial aid remained a higher priority of the respondents' service need in different periods of bereavement. The results suggest that different packages of bereavement services should be developed to meet the needs of these clients.