Your Guide To Prolonged Grief Disorder

Being human involves experiencing a range of emotions. 

Grief is one of them. 

Grief is a natural response to the loss of something cherished. Although usually associated with the loss of a loved one, you can grieve the end of anything special, including moving houses, or changing jobs.

Grief can be a painful emotion. Everyone experiences and copes with grief differently. While some experience extreme sadness or anger, others might feel numb or disconnected. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. The important thing is to let yourself experience your feelings. With time, the emotions begin to soften and you find it easier to cope with the loss.

However, for some people grief can intensify over time. Instead of gradually adjusting to life without their loved one, they might find themselves increasingly preoccupied with the loss that they experienced. This can be a sign of Prolonged Grief Disorder.

What is Prolonged Grief Disorder?

Prolonged Grief Disorder is a serious mental health condition where one experiences intense grief or longing for a lost loved one which does not change over time. 

Although everyone grieves at their own pace, feelings of grief typically begin to ease within 6 months of experiencing a loss. While you might still miss your loved one, you will also find yourself learning to adapt to life without them.

However, in the case of prolonged grief - sometimes called complicated or traumatic grief - the experience of grief either remains the same or intensifies over time. A diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder is made when your grief remains unchanged over the span of a year (or 6 months for children). 

Prolonged Grief Disorder is a relatively new diagnosis that has recently been added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - the holy grail for most mental health practitioners. Its addition reflects the latest research on the influence of prolonged grief on mental well-being. Studies suggest that long periods of grief can increase risk for cardiovascular disease, insomnia, and depression. It can also take a toll on your ability to look after yourself and carry out routine responsibilities.

Signs and Symptoms of Prolonged Grief Disorder 

The signs of prolonged grief disorder include experiencing the following for a period of at least a year (for adults):

• Preoccupation with the loss of a loved one

• Difficulty accepting the loss

• Feeling detached from the people around you

• Inability to resume regular responsibilities such as going to work or carrying out chores

• Immense emotional pain or loneliness

• Difficulty in understanding who you are or your identity after a loss

Because of how unique grief can be, prolonged grief disorder is a mental health condition that can only be diagnosed by a qualified mental health practitioner such as a therapist or psychiatrist. They will ask you questions about your experience and the type of symptoms you are experiencing. These questions will help them rule out other possibilities and ensure that you get help that is tailored to your specific needs.

Coping with Prolonged Grief Disorder

If you have been diagnosed with prolonged grief disorder, know that help is available. The following steps can help you begin to process your feelings of grief:

• Talk therapy

Talking to a mental health professional can help you come to terms with your loss. They will help you understand your responses and equip you with the tools required to grieve in a healthy way. They can also help you manage any consequences of grief such as workplace stress or strained relationships.

• Support groups 

Support groups are a wonderful way to feel heart and connected. They typically comprise people who have experienced similar adversities. The group provides a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore and discuss your feelings while also learning from the experiences of others.

• Creating a routine

Along with professional help, many experts suggest creating some regularity post a loss. A routine can help restore a sense of normalcy and can help you create new meaning for yourself.

Conclusion

Prolonged grief disorder is a painful mental health condition which can exaggerate feelings of loneliness or loss of purpose. As difficult as it is to adjust to life after a loss, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. With the right support - both professionally and from loved ones - you too can begin to process your grief and take the first steps towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.