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.