Complicated grief in help-seeking torture survivors in sub-Saharan African contexts

Am J Orthopsychiatry. 2014 Sep;84(5):487-95. doi: 10.1037/ort0000009. Epub 2014 Aug 4.

Abstract

Many help-seeking torture survivors in sub-Saharan Africa report sudden or violent bereavements, as well as risk factors associated with complicated grief. This mixed-methods article reviews 85 therapeutic client files from torture treatment centers in 3 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Thirty-nine clients had lost loved ones and were at greater risk for depression (effect size 0.65) and thoughts of suicide (OR = 4.99). Qualitative analysis of case histories and interviews with clients elaborate the links between torture and complicated grief. Recommendations are offered for the treatment of complicated grief in sub-Saharan torture survivors, and implications for assessment, timing, and treatment duration are discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Africa South of the Sahara / ethnology
  • Counseling
  • Female
  • Grief*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Qualitative Research
  • Survivors / psychology*
  • Torture / psychology*