Date of Award

2022

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Anne Haskins

Second Advisor

Karrianna Iseminger

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project is to expand program services within a collaborating agency to establish a virtual support option for survivors of suicide loss in North Dakota and Minnesota, with an aim of reaching survivors in rural areas. Furthermore, a hopeful outcome of this project is bringing attention to the occupational impacts those who have lost a loved one face.

Methods: The Kawa Model was selected as the guiding theoretical framework for this project. A two-tiered literature review was conducted to examine the influence of loss by suicide on occupational engagement in daily life. The review revealed limitations in available evidence on virtual-based support groups and the influence of COVID-19 on the grief experience (Gentry et al., 2019; Stroebe & Schut, 2020; Weaver et al., 2021). The evidence that was available indicates that opportunities for support for survivors of suicide loss may help enhance the quality of life for survivors of suicide loss (Dixon, 2021; Gentry et al., 2019; M. Neumann, personal communication, 2022; Ross, Kõlves, & De Leo, 2021; Teoh & Iwama, 2015; Weaver et al., 2021; Whittingham & Martin, 2020). This evidence along with a needs assessment on a collaborating program, Together we Educate About the Realities of Suicide (TEARS), led to the identification of a need for a virtual support group to expand access for survivors of suicide loss in rural areas.

Results: Following the literature review and needs assessment, a virtual support group for survivors of suicide loss was established and facilitated by the occupational therapy student. Additionally, a product was created to serve as a kit for facilitators of support groups for survivors of suicide loss, primarily in a virtual context.

Conclusions: The creation of virtual support groups can have a positive influence on the lives of survivors of suicide loss by helping them enhance their personal resources, protect themselves against complicated grief responses, and expand their perceived system of support. Occupational therapists have a unique set of skills and knowledge that would make them a potent team member in the future with more research.

Download

Share

COinS