What do I need to know about Grief?
Grief is seen as a mental state, activated by the death of a relative or close friend that allows an individual to adjust to life without the deceased. Sometimes, especially when the death is unexpected or traumatic, an individual may experience enduring symptoms known to be associated with Prolonged Grief Disorder (also named Complicated Grief or Traumatic Grief):
- Persistent mourning, yearning, anguish or withdrawal
- Detachment from others and emotional numbness
- Inability to enjoy life or find meaning in life without the deceased
- Feelings of anger, sadness or bitterness about aspects of the death
- Intense preoccupation with the loved one, including distressing thoughts about the death itself
Specialized therapy that addresses enduring grief symptoms has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals suffering from Prolonged Grief Disorder.
Learn more about available Grief Treatment Programs at Columbia/NYSPI