Complicated grief

Complicated Grief is a term used in the field of psychology and mental health to describe a persistent form of intense grief that interferes with a person's ability to function in daily life. This condition is also known as prolonged grief disorder or persistent complex bereavement disorder.

Definition

Complicated grief is characterized by an extended grieving period that lasts for more than six months after the loss of a loved one. This form of grief is typically more intense and longer lasting than normal grief, and it can significantly impair a person's ability to function in daily life.

Symptoms

Symptoms of complicated grief may include intense sorrow, pain, and preoccupation with the deceased or the circumstances of the death. Other symptoms may include difficulty accepting the death, numbness or detachment, bitterness about the death, inability to enjoy life, depression, or a feeling of meaninglessness.

Causes

The exact cause of complicated grief is unknown, but it is believed to occur when the natural grieving process is disrupted. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as an unexpected or violent death, a lack of support during the grieving process, or an existing mental health condition.

Treatment

Treatment for complicated grief often involves psychotherapy, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). Medication may also be used in conjunction with therapy.

See Also

• Grief
• Bereavement
• Depression
• Anxiety