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Understanding and Responding to Grief-Related Needs: A Differentiated Community Approach
Sponsor: ISPA - Instituto Universitario de Ciencias Psicologicas, Sociais e da Vida
Summary
The GriefDiff study is a randomized controlled trial evaluating a differentiated, community-based model of grief support for older adults. It compares three intervention levels-Information and Grief Literacy (IGLiteracy), Individual Self-Help Program (ISelfHP), and Moderated Self-Help Groups (MSHGroups)-to assess their effectiveness in reducing prolonged grief and psychological distress. Participants are screened for risk of Prolonged Grief Disorder and relational needs, then randomized to matched or non-matched interventions. Outcomes are measured at baseline, post-intervention (3 months), and follow-up (6 months), focusing primarily on prolonged grief symptoms and secondarily on depression, anxiety, stress, attachment, social support, and traumatic stress. The study aims to provide evidence for a cost-effective, scalable, and preventive public health model of bereavement care.
Official title: Responding to Grief-Related Needs: Study Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
60 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
246
Start Date
2026-03-01
Completion Date
2028-12-31
Last Updated
2026-02-25
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
IGLiteracy
A low-intensity intervention with one group psychoeducation session on grief reactions and available support, followed by bi-weekly SMS reminders for three months. It represents the minimum active support.
Arm 2 - Individual Self-Help Program (ISelfHP)
A digital self-help program promoting emotional regulation and adaptive grief processing through psychoeducation and exercises. Participants complete activities over three months, supported by reminders and brief phone contacts. Printed materials are available if needed.
Arm 3 - Moderated Self-Help Groups (MSHGroups)
Weekly psychologist-led peer groups for three months, focusing on emotional expression, acceptance, meaning-making, and coping, using a standardized protocol.
Locations (1)
InLuto Association
Lisbon, Portugal