Caregiver Coping in the Aftermath of Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC)

This data set derives from a survey of 243 caregivers of children lost to SUDC. It demonstrates that regardless of gender or time since loss, caregivers self-reported symptoms indicative of Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) (44.67%) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (41.03%). Caregivers indicated that peer support was the most beneficial coping strategy, and female caregivers reported receiving more interpersonal support from peers, as well as family and friends. Despite this, female caregivers within the first 24 months of loss were particularly vulnerable to moderate anxiety and depression. These findings highlight the urgent need for increased awareness, support, and resources to provide targeted interventions to improve the well-being of caregivers and mitigate long-term psychological consequences.