Grief affects people differently, but it can be intense and severe. Though not in order, grief and loss involve a period of sorrow, numbness, anger and even guilt. The grieving person continues to live and function as they grapple with the loss., although the grief may intensify on special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries and festive seasons.
Losses happen almost to anyone. After a period of grief, we learn to adjust to a new reality and focus on other relationships for support, even as we miss the departed person. However, some people continue to grieve even after an extended period. They have difficulty accepting the loss and resuming their life. Such grief is known as complicated grief or persistent complex bereavement disorder.
People with complicated grief feel overwhelmed by their sadness. They feel guilty about being happy, so they avoid socialising. They refuse to make any changes, e.g., changing the colour of the wall painting or redecorating the room where the departed person used to live.
Some indicators that you or your loved one may be experiencing complicated grief include:
Intense emotions of depression, guilt or self-blame even after 6 months
Numbness and detachment
Intense longing for the deceased, that you ignore people around you
Feeling that life has no meaning
Losing the will to live and long to be with the loved one
Unable to carry out everyday tasks
Isolating from others or withdrawing from social activities
It is essential to seek treatment for complicated grief. A professional counsellor can process your grief and loss and help you heal while continuing to honour the memory of the departed person.
Restoring Peace Counselling & Consultancy offers counselling and psychotherapy services for individuals dealing with grief and loss. For more information, please visit www.restoringpeace.com.sg or WhatsApp us at +65 8889 1848.
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