When Grieving Becomes a Mental Health Concern
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Introduction: When Grief Doesn’t Go Away
Losing someone we love is one of life’s hardest experiences. While grief is a natural reaction, some people continue to suffer deeply long after the loss. This condition is now recognized as a mental health disorder called Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD). A recent report published in The Lancet explains what PGD is, why it matters, and how we can help those who are struggling.
What Is Prolonged Grief Disorder?
Prolonged Grief Disorder is a newly recognized mental health condition, included in both the DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 diagnostic manuals. It is different from normal grief because the pain doesn’t fade over time. People with PGD feel intense yearning or preoccupation with the deceased, along with emotional pain, trouble functioning, and feelings like life has lost its meaning. This deep sorrow lasts well beyond what is typical in their culture or community—usually more than 6 to 12 months after the loss.
How Is PGD Different from Normal Grief?
Everyone grieves in their own way, but most people start to adjust and find new meaning in life after some time. In PGD, that adjustment doesn’t happen. People may avoid reminders of the deceased, feel emotionally numb, or struggle to carry out daily life. PGD can also lead to physical problems like high blood pressure or weakened immune response, and it’s linked to higher risks of depression, PTSD, and even suicidal thoughts.
Why Is PGD Now a Recognized Diagnosis?
For many years, severe grief wasn’t seen as a separate mental health issue. It was often confused with depression or PTSD. But recent studies have shown that PGD is a unique condition with its own symptoms and effects. Experts now agree that identifying PGD as a real disorder can help people get the care they need.
What Causes Prolonged Grief?
There’s no single cause of PGD. It can depend on many factors, including:
- Type of loss: Losing a child or partner is especially hard.
- Sudden or traumatic deaths: These can make it harder to cope.
- Lack of support: Isolation during bereavement can worsen symptoms.
- Personal history: People with past trauma or mental health issues may be more at risk.
Culture also plays a big role. Some cultures have strong rituals and support systems that help people cope. In others, grief may be more private or unsupported, which can lead to greater suffering.
How Is PGD Treated?
The most effective treatment for PGD is psychotherapy, especially a type called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This therapy helps people face their grief, change unhelpful thoughts, and reconnect with life. Some therapies also include writing exercises, exposure to painful memories, and building new routines.
There’s growing interest in digital therapy, which can help people in remote or low-resource areas. Medications like antidepressants may help with some symptoms, but they are not a replacement for therapy and are still being researched.
PGD in Different Cultures
Not everyone experiences or expresses grief in the same way. What’s seen as “normal” in one culture may be different in another. For example, in some cultures, strong mourning rituals offer comfort and prevent long-term suffering. In others, the lack of open grieving can lead to suppressed emotions and PGD. That’s why culturally sensitive diagnosis and care are important.
Grief During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The pandemic changed how people experienced loss. Funerals were delayed or cancelled, and many grieved alone. Research showed that rates of PGD increased during this time, especially for those who lost loved ones suddenly or couldn’t say goodbye properly. This has highlighted the importance of support systems during times of crisis.
What Needs to Happen Next?
Experts call for better training for healthcare providers to recognize PGD early. They also stress the need for more funding for grief support, especially in schools and community health services. Culturally inclusive treatments and support for children and marginalized groups are also key priorities.
Conclusion: Supporting Healthy Grief
Grief is a normal part of life—but for some, it becomes a serious mental health issue. Prolonged Grief Disorder can affect health, relationships, and quality of life. Recognizing and treating it with care and compassion is the next step in making mental health care more complete and inclusive.