Unresolved (or Complicated) Grief occurs when typical grieving processes become prolonged and significantly impair functioning. Individuals may feel “stuck” and unable to move forward long after the loss.
Key Points:
- Symptoms: Persistent longing, intense sorrow and rumination about the deceased, difficulty accepting the death, avoidance of reminders.
- Risk Factors: Traumatic or unexpected loss, lack of social support, history of mental health issues.
- Therapeutic Approaches: Grief counseling, sometimes specialized interventions like complicated grief therapy (CGT) or EMDR if trauma is involved.
