Prolonged Grief Disorder
Complicated grief, also known as prolonged grief disorder (PGD), is a condition characterized by persistent and debilitating symptoms of grief that significantly impair an individual’s ability to function and adjust to their loss. Unlike more typical grief, which usually becomes less intense over time and allows individuals to gradually adjust to their loss, complicated grief is marked by prolonged and intense feelings of sadness, yearning, guilt, or anger that persist for an extended period, often for six months or longer.
Symptoms of Complicated Grief
Individuals with complicated grief may experience a range of symptoms that interfere with their daily functioning and quality of life. These symptoms may include:
- Intense and persistent feelings of sadness, longing, or emptiness
- Intrusive thoughts, memories, or images that are distressing or difficult to control
- Avoidance of reminders of the deceased or situations associated with the loss
- Difficulty accepting the reality of the loss or feeling emotionally numb
- Preoccupation with thoughts of the loss or a sense of disbelief that the loss has occurred
- Feelings of guilt, regret, or self-blame
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions or finding pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable
- Social withdrawal or isolation, and difficulty connecting with others
- Sleep disturbances, appetite changes, fatigue, or other physical symptoms
- Impaired concentration, memory, or decision-making abilities
Risk Factors for Complicated Grief
While anyone can experience complicated grief, certain factors may increase the risk, including:
- Sudden or traumatic loss, such as death by suicide, homicide, or accident
- Previous experiences of trauma or loss
- Lack of social support or coping resources
- Personal or family history of mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety
- Relationship with the deceased characterized by dependency, ambivalence, or unresolved conflicts
- Cultural or religious beliefs that complicate the grieving process
Diagnosis and Assessment
Complicated grief is typically diagnosed based on the presence of persistent and impairing symptoms of grief that extend beyond the expected duration of normal grief. Mental health professionals may use standardized assessment tools, such as the Prolonged Grief Disorder-13 (PG-13) scale, to evaluate the severity of symptoms and make a diagnosis.
Treatment for Complicated Grief
Treatment for complicated grief may involve a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support services. Evidence-based treatments for complicated grief include Complicated Grief Treatment (CGT), which focuses on helping individuals process and integrate the loss, as well as addressing maladaptive thoughts and behaviors related to the loss.
Prognosis
With appropriate treatment and support, most individuals with complicated grief can experience significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life. However, without intervention, complicated grief can persist for years and increase the risk of developing other mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety.
Beyond Grief
Overall, complicated grief is a serious and debilitating condition that requires compassionate and comprehensive treatment. By seeking help from mental health professionals and accessing appropriate support services, individuals with complicated grief can find healing and learn to live with their loss in a way that allows them to move forward with their lives.
Getting Help
You don’t have to go through this alone. We can help you feel whole again. Contact Us for information about grief counseling.