CULTURAL, RELIGIOUS, AND SOCIAL INFLUENCES ON RECOVERY FROM PROLONGED GRIEF DISORDER: PERSPECTIVES OF PAKISTANI CLINICIANS

Abstract

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) is a recently recognized mental health condition characterized by persistent and intense grief that extends beyond culturally expected mourning periods and significantly impairs daily functioning. While previous research has largely focused on identifying symptoms and diagnostic procedures, comparatively little attention has been given to understanding factors that facilitate or hinder recovery, particularly within culturally diverse societies. The present qualitative study explores Pakistani clinicians’ perspectives regarding cultural, religious, social, and psychological influences on recovery from PGD. Twelve mental health clinicians practicing in Pakistan participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-step framework.Four major themes emerged from the analysis: Helpful and Healthy Methods, Cultural and Religious Perspectives, Disturbed Social Life, and Challenges in Healing. Findings revealed that psychoeducation, family counseling, social support, religious faith, and increased mental health awareness serve as important facilitators of recovery. Conversely, cultural expectations, societal stigma, emotional attachment to the deceased, social isolation, self-blame, environmental pressures, and discontinuity in treatment often delay the healing process. Religious rituals and cultural mourning practices were found to function both as protective and risk factors depending on how individuals interpreted and utilized these practices.The findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive interventions that acknowledge the role of family systems, religious beliefs, and community structures in grief recovery. Integrating these elements into mental health services may improve treatment outcomes and promote psychological well-being among individuals experiencing prolonged grief. The study contributes to the growing literature on PGD by highlighting the significance of cultural context in shaping recovery experiences and therapeutic responses.