The grief experiences of Military and Veteran family members, 2001-2024

Canadian Armed Forces members and Veterans can die due to their line of work, in service and post-service. Family members who support their loved one, serving or who has served, can face the death of their family member. This grief can negatively impact their mental health and well-being. There is a lack of research on the grief experience of these family members. Health care providers may not understand the bereavement process of these family members. Providing practical support could benefit family members and their health care.

This study will explore the grief experiences of family members whose loved ones died for service-related reasons. Interviews and focus groups with family members in this study will shine a light on their stories including the supports that were helpful to them. Bereaved family members’ experiences will reveal the health care provision support they received and inform future grief support. Understanding the experiences of bereaved family members of military and Veteran members is essential. This understanding will help create grief education for family members of military members. The findings of this research may educate health care providers providing grief support to family members.