Empower-Grief: A Study on a Selective Intervention to Prevent Prolonged Grief Disorder
The goal of this clinical trial is to test, through a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), the efficacy of a selective and short intervention based on second and third-wave cognitive-behavioral interventions (named EMPOWER) for the initial problematic grief reactions and to study potential predictors of adherence and efficacy in bereaved relatives of palliative and oncological patients. The main question is whether EMPOWER intervention is more effective than Treatment as Usual (TAU) in preventing Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD). Participants with initial indicators of risk of developing PGD will be randomly allocated to EMPOWER and TAU. The primary outcome considered will be symptoms of PGD. The assessment also includes measures of anxiety and depression, attachment, coping, psychological flexibility, posttraumatic growth, and therapeutic alliance. Apart from screening, three assessment moments will be considered: T1: before the first session; T2: at the last session (up to twelve weeks); and T3: follow-up assessment period at 6 months after the previous assessment.
- EligibilityCriteria: Inclusion Criteria:  Having more than 18 years old Having experienced the death of a close person (i.e., relative, partner, friend) in the palliative and oncological context Having sufficient cognitive abilities and proficiency in the Portuguese language Participants will be considered if the death has occurred up to 12 months, considering that the time criterion in diagnosis for prolonged grief disorder is 12 months (and the focus in this study is on prevention)  Exclusion Criteria:  individuals with a pre-existing severe or active mental disorder predating the loss (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression) individuals with suicide risk assessed during the intervention individuals undergoing other psychological interventions before the loss of the loved one - HealthyVolunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers - Gender: All - MinimumAge: 18 Years - StdAgeList: Adult, Older Adult