Experiences of memory-writing in bereaved people

Abstract

Abstract Grief following the loss of a close person, and dealing with bereavement, is painful and demanding. Grief theory emphasizes the positive value of memories and of continuing bonds to the deceased. Furthermore, writing is a powerful tool for expressing and handling difficult and painful experiences. This qualitative study explores and describes the experiences of memory-writing in 13 bereaved people attending a structured grief management programme. Qualitative data from written reports following writing in groups and at home, and from an extensive individual report compiled two weeks after completion, was analysed. The findings indicate that memory-writing seems to evoke and preserve significant memories. Although distressing, this memory process has a meaning-reconstruction role for most people, and provides power to move forward on the road of life. The findings suggest that memory-writing might be a useful tool in grief processing and suitable for use in health care.