Introduction: What is Complex Grief?

Grief is a natural response to loss, but for some, the mourning process can become overwhelming and prolonged. Complex grief, also referred to as complicated grief, occurs when emotional pain remains severe and continues to persist for an extended period. Unlike normal grief, complex grief hinders a person’s ability to heal and adjust, trapping them in a state of mourning.

It's important to understand the distinction between normal grief and complex grief because the latter may require specialized treatment to overcome. According to the Mayo Clinic, complex grief can significantly impact a person’s day-to-day life, affecting their mental, emotional, and even physical health.

What are the Symptoms of Complex Grief?

Recognizing Complex Grief Symptoms

Complex grief manifests through various emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms. These symptoms can deeply interfere with a person’s ability to function normally, affecting relationships, work, and self-care. Here are some of the key symptoms to look out for:

  • Intense longing for the deceased
  • Difficulty accepting the death
  • Detachment from daily life
  • Preoccupation with the person who passed away
  • Avoidance of reminders of the loss
  • Feelings of emptiness or meaninglessness

As highlighted by the American Association of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, complex grief can also lead to mental health complications such as depression and anxiety. If these feelings persist for months after the loss, it may indicate a more serious condition, known as complex grief disorder.

Causes and Risk Factors of Complex Grief

Understanding the Emotional Triggers

Several factors can increase the risk of developing complex grief. These may include the sudden or unexpected nature of the death, a close or dependent relationship with the deceased, or unresolved issues between the mourner and the person who passed. Some individuals are more prone to experiencing complex grief due to their personal history or emotional vulnerabilities.

In addition, PsychCentral explains that certain people may have a predisposition to complex grief due to prior trauma, past losses, or mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. Understanding these risk factors can help in identifying complex grief early on and seeking help.

Treatment Options for Complex Grief

How to Cope and Heal

The good news is that there are effective treatments available for complex grief. These treatments are designed to help individuals process their loss in a healthy way, enabling them to move forward with their lives. Common treatments include:

  • Grief counselling: Working with a therapist to navigate the complex emotions associated with loss.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing unhelpful thought patterns that may be contributing to prolonged grief.
  • Medication: In some cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of depression or anxiety linked to grief.

According to the Mayo Clinic, prolonged grief therapy (PGT) has also shown promising results in treating complex grief disorder. This therapy helps mourners come to terms with their loss while encouraging them to rebuild a meaningful life.

Practical Steps: What to Do Next

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of complex grief, it’s important to seek support. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Acknowledge the grief: Accept that healing may require time and assistance, and it’s okay to ask for help.
  • Seek professional counselling: Therapists specializing in grief can help you work through the complex emotions you’re experiencing.
  • Build a support system: Surround yourself with people who understand your pain and can provide emotional support.

It's vital to recognize that healing from complex grief requires compassion and patience. While it may feel difficult now, there are ways to cope and move forward.

Conclusion: Get Support with Complex Grief

Complex grief can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, healing is possible. If you are struggling with loss and experiencing the symptoms of complex grief, reaching out for professional help is a significant step in the healing process.

At Helps Counselling, Grace Deby and Carrie Urdiga specializes in helping individuals work through complex grief and its emotional effects. If you’re seeking guidance or need assistance in coping with your loss, both Grace and Carrie is here to provide the support you need. Contact her today to begin your healing journey.

Contact Us
External Resources
Internal Resources

Explore Internal Resources to Support You Through Your Grief

Coping with complex grief can be a challenging and deeply emotional experience. These resources offer insights and strategies to help you navigate grief, practice self-compassion, and manage the stress that can arise during the grieving process.