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Prolonged Grief Disorder

Persistent and Disabling Grief Reaction Beyond Cultural Norms

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Prolonged Grief Disorder?

Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) was added to DSM-5-TR (2022) and ICD-11 as a distinct diagnosis when grief becomes persistent, pervasive, and functionally impairing beyond expected timeframes.

Diagnosis requires bereavement of someone close at least 12 months prior (6 months in children), with daily or nearly daily yearning or preoccupation, plus three or more associated symptoms causing significant distress or impairment.

Distinct from major depressive disorder by predominant focus on the deceased, identity disruption, and emotional pain specifically tied to the loss.

Symptoms

Persistent intense yearning, longing, or preoccupation with thoughts of the deceased
Difficulty accepting the death; feeling part of oneself died
Avoidance of reminders of the loss or excessive focus on them
Intense emotional pain, sorrow, anger, bitterness, guilt
Identity confusion or sense of meaninglessness
Marked loneliness or social withdrawal
Numbness, difficulty engaging in activities or relationships
Symptoms exceed what is normative culturally and religiously
Significant occupational, social, or other functional impairment

Risk Factors

Sudden, traumatic, or violent loss
Loss of a child or spouse
Pre-existing depression, anxiety, or PTSD
Insecure attachment style
Limited social support
Caregiver role with deceased
Multiple concurrent losses
Female sex, older age
History of childhood trauma or prior loss

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Inability to function more than one year after a loss
  • Persistent suicidal ideation or thoughts of joining the deceased (urgent)
  • Substance use to cope with grief
  • Inability to perform self-care, work, or relationships
  • Avoidance of all reminders of the deceased
  • Persistent guilt, anger, or bitterness over the loss

Treatment Methods

01
Prolonged grief therapy (PGT) — first-line targeted psychotherapy
02
Complicated grief treatment (CGT) — manualized 16-session intervention
03
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy adapted for grief
04
Group therapy with bereaved peers
05
Pharmacotherapy: SSRIs may help comorbid depression but limited evidence for grief itself
06
Treatment of comorbid major depression, PTSD, anxiety
07
Bereavement counseling and peer support groups
08
Mindfulness-based interventions
09
Cultural and spiritual practices respecting individual beliefs
10
Long-term follow-up to monitor relapse and ongoing functional adjustment

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.