Navigating Grief: Understanding, Coping, and Healing
Grief Course
Losing a loved one is one of life’s most profound and challenging experiences. Grief can trigger a wide range of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses, which vary greatly from person to person. Contrary to popular belief, research suggests that grief does not always follow a set sequence of stages. Instead, individuals experience unique and sometimes unpredictable patterns as they navigate their loss.
Most people experience mild symptoms of grief that gradually ease over time. Some may go through more moderate to severe grief, which also tends to lessen as they adjust. However, for a small percentage of individuals, grief can become prolonged and significantly impact their well-being, requiring professional intervention.
The depth of connection with the deceased can influence how grief unfolds, though studies show that resilience alone does not necessarily predict how long grief will persist. In recent years, long-term, intense grief has been recognized as Prolonged Grief Disorder—a condition marked by significant, persistent distress lasting six months or more after a loss. Several factors can increase the risk of prolonged grief, including:
Persistent feelings of blame or guilt
Avoidance behaviors
Difficulty processing painful emotions
Pre-existing mental health conditions
Social isolation or lack of support
The nature of the loss (e.g., sudden or traumatic death)
Prolonged grief is linked to increased health risks, including a higher likelihood of depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and substance abuse. If symptoms of depression emerge early in the grieving process, there may be a heightened risk of developing prolonged grief disorder.
Grief Treatment
Identifying prolonged grief requires a comprehensive assessment, including screening for potential coexisting mental health conditions. Research shows that Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other structured interventions can significantly improve grief-related outcomes.
A thorough clinical evaluation is essential to understanding an individual’s unique experience and ensuring they receive the most effective support. Personalized therapy, guided by empathy and a deep understanding of past and present influences, is often the most effective approach. Treatment may include:
Addressing co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression
Managing substance use if applicable
Developing coping strategies to process emotions
Rebuilding social connections and meaningful activities
If you or someone you love is struggling with grief, please consider a psychology appointment.