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Grief is a universal human experience that occurs in response to loss, most commonly the death of someone close. The DSM-5 distinguishes between normal bereavement and Prolonged Grief Disorder (previously called Complicated Grief), which is recognized when grief becomes persistent and significantly impairs functioning.

Normal Grief Response

Normal grief can involve intense sadness, yearning, preoccupation with the deceased, crying, and difficulty accepting the loss. People may experience waves of grief, changes in appetite and sleep, withdrawal from activities, and difficulty concentrating. These responses typically lessen in intensity over time, though grief is not a linear process, and individuals may move back and forth through different experiences.

Prolonged Grief Disorder

According to the DSM-5, Prolonged Grief Disorder is diagnosed when the following criteria are met:

• The death of a close person occurred at least 12 months ago (6 months for children and adolescents). 

• Since the death, the individual experiences intense yearning/longing for the deceased or preoccupation with thoughts or memories of the deceased nearly every day. 

• The grief response includes at least three of the following symptoms nearly every day for at least the last month:

  • Identity disruption (feeling part of oneself has died). 

  • Marked sense of disbelief about the death.

  • Avoidance of reminders of the loss.

  • Intense emotional pain related to the death.

  • Difficulty reintegrating into life (with relationships, interests, planning for the future).

  • Emotional numbness or detachment.

  • Feeling that life is meaningless.

  • Intense loneliness.

The grief response causes clinically significant distress or impairment in functioning and is not better explained by cultural norms.

Support and Treatment

While grief is a natural process, support can be beneficial. Grief counseling, support groups, and psychotherapy can help individuals process their loss, find meaning, and gradually adapt to life without their loved one. For prolonged grief disorder, evidence-based treatments such as complicated grief therapy have shown effectiveness in helping individuals heal while maintaining their connection to the deceased.

DISCLAIMER

These descriptions are for educational purposes. A proper diagnosis should only be made by a qualified mental health professional through a comprehensive evaluation. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, please seek professional help.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not for at least six months, concerning various events or activities. According to the DSM-5, the person finds it difficult to control the worry, and the anxiety is associated with significant distress or impairment in functioning.

Symptoms 

The anxiety, worry, or physical symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. People with GAD often worry about everyday matters such as health, finances, family, work, or other issues, even when there is little or no reason for concern. Anxiety shows up in a variety of ways.

• Excessive worry that is difficult to control.

• Restlessness or feeling on edge.

• Being easily fatigued.

• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank. 

• Irritability.

• Muscle tension. 

• Sleep disturbances like difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restlessness, or unsatisfying sleep.

Treatment

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions and are highly treatable. Evidence-based treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps identify and change thought patterns and behaviors, and medication when appropriate. Many people experience significant improvement with proper treatment and can learn effective coping strategies for managing anxiety.

DISCLAIMER

These descriptions are for educational purposes. A proper diagnosis should only be made by a qualified mental health professional through a comprehensive evaluation. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, please seek professional help.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a common but serious mood disorder that significantly impacts daily functioning. According to the DSM-5, depression involves experiencing five or more specific symptoms during the same two-week period, representing a change from previous functioning. At least one symptom must be either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure.

Symptoms

Depression affects how you think, feel, and function in daily life, impacting work, relationships, and physical health.

• Persistent sad, empty, or hopeless mood most of the day, nearly every day.

• Sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

• Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in activities previously enjoyed.

• Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite. 

• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping).  

• Physical agitation or slowing down that is noticeable to others. 

• Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day. 

• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt. 

• Difficulty concentrating, thinking clearly, or making decisions. 

• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.

Treatment

Depression is not a sign of weakness or something you can simply "snap out of." It results from a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. Effective treatments are available, including psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), medication, or a combination of both. With proper treatment, the majority of people with depression improve significantly.

DISCLAIMER

Note: These descriptions are for educational purposes. A proper diagnosis should only be made by a qualified mental health professional through a comprehensive evaluation. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, please seek professional help.