PTSD Prevalence Rates of US Funeral Directors during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Brief Report

Emily Hicks; Genna Mashinchi; Hannes Heppner; Phoebe Bean; Chelsey Maxson

doi:10.21467/ajss.10.1.45-51

Authors

Emily Hicks University of Montana, Department of Psychology https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4630-0928
Genna Mashinchi University of Montana, Department of Psychology https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9962-9428
Hannes Heppner University of Montana, Department of Psychology https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8543-7161
Phoebe Bean University of Montana, Department of Psychology
Chelsey Maxson University of Montana, Department of Psychology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21467/ajss.10.1.45-51

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.

Keywords:

Funeral directors, PTSD, COVID-19

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