The Psychological Impact of Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood: Associations Between Early Professional Interactions and Long-Term Distress Among Bereaved Caregivers

Each year, approximately 500 U.S. children aged 1–18 years die suddenly and without explanation. Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) is a devastating loss with profound psychological consequences for caregivers. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 174 caregivers whose child's death was classified as SUDC at least one year earlier. Using a trauma-informed framework, we assessed anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), prolonged grief (BGQ), posttraumatic stress disorder (PCL-6), functional impairment (WSAS), and experiences with emergency medical services (EMS) and emergency department (ED) personnel. Moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression were reported by 26.4% and 22.4% of caregivers, respectively, and 35.4% had probable PTSD. Distress was greatest among caregivers whose loss occurred 1–2 years earlier and those aged ≤40 years. Nearly half reported neutral or negative interactions with EMS and ED personnel, highlighting the need for trauma-informed training for professionals supporting families following a child’s sudden and unexplained death.