Exploring the Lived Experiences of Families Bereaved by Suicide in Kampala, Uganda: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study

Suicide bereavement is a complex psychosocial experience often characterized by traumatic grief, stigma, and social isolation. While the global literature has increasingly recognized the unique needs of suicide bereavement survivors, little is known about how these experiences are shaped by African cultural contexts, particularly in Uganda. This study explored the lived experiences of families bereaved by suicide in Kampala, Uganda. Guided by an interpretivist paradigm, the study employed a qualitative Constructivist Grounded Theory approach. Participants were initially recruited through purposive sampling, followed by theoretical sampling as categories emerged during concurrent data collection and analysis. The study involved 14 participants, comprising 12 suicide bereavement survivors and two faith-based representatives. Data were generated through in-depth and semi-structured interviews and analysed through initial and focused coding, constant comparison, memo writing, category development and theoretical integration until sufficient theoretical saturation was achieved. The findings revealed five interrelated experiences characterizing suicide bereavement: (i) shock and disbelief following the unexpected death, (ii) prolonged grief and difficulty accepting the loss, (iii) cultural stigma and shame, (iv) concealment of the cause of death, and (v) varied community reactions ranging from condemnation to selective support. These experiences demonstrate that suicide bereavement extends beyond individual grief to encompass broader cultural, social, and spiritual challenges. The study highlights the urgent need for culturally responsive postvention interventions that integrate trauma-informed psychological care with community and faith-based support systems to improve recovery among suicide bereavement survivors in Uganda.

 Keywords: Suicide bereavement; Lived experiences; Stigma; Constructivist Grounded Theory; Psychological recovery