Grief is a universal emotional experience triggered by the loss of someone or something significant, often due to death, but also from divorce, job loss, or estrangement. Grief is a normal process, although its intensity, duration, and impact vary greatly. Understanding the stages of grief, normal vs. prolonged grief, and how grief differs from clinical depression helps individuals and professionals respond compassionately and appropriately.
Understanding Grief and Bereavement
Grief refers to the emotional and psychological reaction to loss, whereas bereavement particularly refers to the period of mourning following someone’s death. Common emotional responses include sadness, anger, guilt, confusion, and even relief, depending on the circumstances of the loss. Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or chest tightness may also occur.
Therapists and counsellors often work with grieving individuals to help process complex emotions and prevent complications such as Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD).
The Stages of Grief
The most widely recognized framework for grief is Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s Five Stages of Grief, introduced in 1969. While not linear, these stages help conceptualize the process:
- Denial –Denial: This defensive strategy lessens the impact of a loss.
- Anger – Frustration that the loss occurred; may be directed at self, others, or even the deceased.
- Bargaining – Attempts to reverse or avoid the loss through “what if” scenarios.
- Depression – Deep sorrow, hopelessness, and emotional withdrawal.
- Acceptance –Acceptance entails adjusting to life in the absence of the loved one.
Many therapists now acknowledge that grief is non-linear, meaning individuals may move back and forth between stages or skip some entirely (Bonanno, 2009).
Duration of Grieving
There is no universal timeline for grief. Some people begin to recuperate within months, while others need years. According to the American Psychiatric Association (2013), acute grief often peaks within the first six months, and symptoms generally reduce in intensity over time.
However, if grief persists intensely beyond 12 months and impairs functioning, it may be classified as Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD).
What Is Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)?
PGD is characterized by intense longing for the deceased, emotional numbness, and preoccupation with the loss that lasts longer than culturally expected. The DSM-5-TR (2022) includes PGD under trauma- and stressor-related disorders. Individuals with PGD are at higher risk for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and even suicidal ideation.
Symptoms of PGD include:
- Difficulty accepting the death
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Feeling that life is meaningless
- Avoidance of reminders of the loss
PGD often requires specialised grief-focused therapy, where trained counsellors or therapists guide individuals in processing the loss, rebuilding identity, and integrating the memory of the deceased without being consumed by it.
Grief vs. Depression: Key Differences
It is essential to distinguish between grief and clinical depression, especially when determining treatment. Grief, even when intense, is a natural response and does not always require medical intervention. However, MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) or Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) may necessitate psychiatric support.
-
Grief
Cause: Triggered by loss
Mood: Waves of sadness with moments of relief
Self-worth: Usually intact
Suicidal thoughts: Rare in grief
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Cause: Can occur without a clear cause
Mood: Persistent sadness, hopelessness
Self-worth: Often impaired, feelings of worthlessness
Suicidal thoughts: May occur frequently
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)
Cause: Chronic low mood over 2+ years
Mood: Ongoing mild but chronic depression
Self-worth: Low self-esteem, pessimism
Suicidal thoughts: May be passive or chronic
Understanding these differences allows therapists to choose the right intervention—grief counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), or medication when necessary.
Mental Health Impacts of Unresolved Grief
Unresolved or complicated grief can lead to:
- Chronic stress and weakened immune function
- Anxiety disorders, including panic attacks
- Depression and social withdrawal
- Difficulty concentrating or returning to work
- Substance misuse as a coping mechanism
Early intervention by mental health professionals helps mitigate these outcomes. Therapists often use techniques like Narrative Therapy, Grief Counselling, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy to help clients navigate emotional pain.
The Role of Therapists and Counsellors
Grief is a process to be worked through, not a problem to be fixed. Counsellors offer a safe space for emotional expression, while therapists can help identify when grief has become pathological or merged with other mental health conditions.
Key therapeutic approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Restructuring negative thought patterns
- Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT): Specifically designed for PGD
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Calms anxiety and grounds individuals in the present
- Support groups: Foster shared experiences and reduce isolation
Conclusion
Grief is a deeply personal journey shaped by love, loss, and the human experience. While most people gradually adjust over time, for some, the process becomes prolonged, leading to conditions such as Prolonged Grief Disorder or depression. Understanding the stages and typical duration of the grieving process, and distinguishing grief from mental health disorders like Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), are essential steps toward healing. There is no “right” way to grieve, but with compassionate care, individuals can move from mourning to meaning.
If you are searching for the ‘best psychologist near me’ to help navigate the emotional challenges of grief, remember that significant change starts with a single step. Centres like Psychowellness Center in Janakpuri and Dwarka Sector-17, Delhi, provide expert support in grief counselling, emotional control, and behavioural therapy. Prefer privacy or flexibility? TalktoAngel offers secure online therapy and coaching sessions with certified psychologists across India. Call 011-47039812 or 7827208707 today to begin your journey toward healing and emotional well-being.
Authored by Dr. R.K. Suri, Clinical Psychologist, and Ms. Sheetal Chauhan, Counselling Psychologist, this piece highlights practical approaches to enhance relationship fulfillment, improve communication skills, and foster lasting emotional health.
Posted on 16 August 2025.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). DSM-5-TR: Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (Text Revision). https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm
Bonanno, G. A. (2009). The other side of sadness: What the new science of bereavement tells us about life after loss. Basic Books.
Shear, M. K. (2015). Complicated grief. New England Journal of Medicine, 372(2), 153–160. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMcp1315618
Zisook, S., & Shear, K. (2009). Grief and bereavement: What psychiatrists need to know. World Psychiatry, 8(2), 67–74. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2051-5545.2009.tb00221.x
Coping with Grief: Transforming Pain into Personal Growth
Understanding the Emotional Impact of Grief on Mental Health – Psychowellness Center