Grief Process and Support Systems for Military Widows

ABSTRACT This qualitative study aimed to give voice to young military widows through a phenomenological approach using a feminist lens. The researchers interviewed four young military widows and explored how they experienced the sudden traumatic loss of their spouse, the supports they utilized to cope with their loss, and their perception of the supports they used. There were four major themes that emerged through participant interviews: 1) notification process; 2) response to the notification of the sudden traumatic loss of their husband; 3) finding own path from grief to healing; and 4) support systems utilized during the healing process. Some supports were perceived as effective, and others were perceived as ineffective. All the military widows who participated in this study went through a very individualized healing process after the loss of their spouse and utilized a variety of supports to heal. Findings from this study have clinical implications unique to military widows and families regarding life transitions following the loss of their partner and factors that can impact their mental health.