PTSD Prevalence Rates of US Funeral Directors during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has created physical and mental health concerns for funeral directors. Past literature notes that high job demands, occupational death exposure, and heightened numbers of funerals have negative impacts on the mental health of funeral workers. Additionally, previous studies have found prevalence rates of PTSD to be more than three times higher in funeral directors than the general population. The present study sought to evaluate PTSD rates of funeral directors in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic given the increased job demands, high rates of burnout, and heightened death exposure they have faced. A convenience sample was used, and 10 participants completed an online survey containing the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) and questions regarding awareness of mental health resources. Findings indicate that 50% of participants met criteria for a provisional PTSD diagnosis (n = 5), and 30% of participants had little to no awareness of mental health resources for funeral directors (n = 3). The results highlight the need for increased research and awareness regarding the mental health of funeral directors, particularly during times of increased stress, and the need for mental health services for funeral workers.