The Aftermath of Loss: As a Controversial Concept “Complicated Grief”

Abstract

Loss of a loved one is an inevitable experience within the course of the life. Experience of loss brings grief which is a natural and necessary process. The symptoms in this process diminish over time and bereaved person returns back to functionality level. Sometimes, however, the grief process can deviate from its usual course and becomes complicated. This is called complicated grief and it has recently become a topic of attention. Studies indicated that complicated grief is different from normal grief, major depression and posttraumatic stress disorder. Therefore, it is suggested that this phenomenon should be regarded as a distinct disorder. In this context, it has been examined how the complicated grief differs from normal grief and other psychopathologies that occur after normal loss. Then, epidemiology, risk factors and prognosis are reviewed. To conclude, complicated grief, which has a long and negative course, affects the level of functioning and psychological wellbeing. Beyond that, it should be noted that it may have fatal consequences. Especially in Turkey, there is a need for research on complicated grief as there are very few studies on it.

Keywords

• complicated grief
• risk factors
• prognosis