Understanding Complicated Grief: A Deep Dive into Prolonged Mourning

Grief is a natural and expected response to loss, particularly the death of a loved one. However, in some cases, grief can become chronic, intense, and debilitating, impairing an individual's ability to function in daily life. This form of grief, often called complicated grief or prolonged grief disorder, goes beyond the typical stages of grief and can be a significant mental health concern. This article seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of complicated grief, how it differs from common grief, its symptoms, and available treatment options.


Complicated Grief Defined

Understanding complicated grief begins with a clear definition of the condition. This section aims to describe what complicated grief is and how it presents in affected individuals.


What Is Complicated Grief?

Complicated grief is a persistent form of intense grief that lasts longer than expected following a loss, often a year or more. It is characterized by an inability to accept the loss, intense sorrow, and preoccupation with the deceased or its circumstances.


Distinguishing Complicated Grief from Normal Grief

While grief is a universally experienced response to lose, complicated grief is distinct from normal or common grief in its intensity, duration, and impact on a person's life.


The Duration and Intensity of Grief

Unlike normal grief, which tends to lessen in intensity over time, complicated grief remains intense and unrelenting for an extended period. Individuals with complicated grief may struggle to accept the loss and may feel as though the loss is fresh even years after the event.


Impact on Daily Functioning

Complicated grief can significantly disrupt a person's daily functioning. Those experiencing it may find it hard to perform normal tasks, maintain relationships, or care for their health.


Recognizing Complicated Grief: Symptoms to Look For

Knowing the symptoms of complicated grief can help recognize the condition, both in oneself and others.


Emotional Symptoms

Emotional symptoms of complicated grief include intense longing or yearning for the deceased, feelings of emptiness or meaninglessness, and difficulty experiencing positive memories of the lost person.


Behavioral Symptoms

Behavioral symptoms may include

  • withdrawal from social activities,
  • neglect of personal hygiene, and
  • preoccupation with the lost person or circumstances surrounding the death.


Managing Complicated Grief: Available Treatment Options

Treatment for complicated grief typically involves psychotherapy, though medications may be used to help manage associated conditions like depression or anxiety.


Psychotherapy for Complicated Grief

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy have been found effective in treating complicated grief. Therapy can provide strategies for coping with grief, addressing negative thought patterns, and gradually confronting and accepting the loss.


Medications

While there's no specific drug to treat complicated grief, medications such as antidepressants can help manage symptoms of depression or anxiety that often accompany complicated grief.


Final Thoughts

Complicated grief is a persistent, intense form of grief that can severely impact a person's life. Recognizing its signs and seeking professional help is crucial for those affected. With appropriate treatment, it is possible to navigate complicated grief and move toward healing and acceptance.

Grouport Offers Group Therapy For Grief & Loss

Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy for grief and loss. Members of our private Grief & Loss groups learn constructive ways to process their pain on their journey to healing, including practicing key steps that help them mitigate the weight of their grief. 

Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.

You don't have to go through it alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.

Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships.

Join a Grief & Loss Group Support Session

We offer grief and loss group therapy sessions to help participants mitigate the weight of their grief. Get effective and affordable treatment to cope with grief.

Space is limited, so reserve your seat today.