The Impact of Prolonged Grief Disorder on Mental Health
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) is a recently recognized condition that is characterized by persistent and debilitating grief in the aftermath of a significant loss. PGD is different from normal grieving, which is a natural and necessary process that allows individuals to come to terms with their loss and to move forward with their lives. In contrast, PGD is a clinical disorder that can significantly impact an individual's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, and can interfere with their ability to function in their daily lives.
PGD was first recognized as a clinical disorder in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), which was published by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2018. According to the ICD-11, PGD is defined as "persistent grief disorder," which is characterized by a range of symptoms that persist for more than 12 months after a significant loss. These symptoms can include intense longing or yearning for the deceased, difficulty accepting the loss, feelings of anger or bitterness, a sense of meaninglessness or purposelessness, difficulty moving forward with life, and physical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping or eating.
PGD is thought to affect a significant proportion of individuals who experience a significant loss, and is believed to be more common in certain populations, such as those who have experienced the death of a child or a traumatic loss. However, the exact prevalence of PGD is not well understood, and research on the condition is still in its early stages.
One of the challenges in understanding and treating PGD is that it can be difficult to distinguish from normal grieving, as many of the symptoms are similar. It is important to recognize that PGD is not simply a natural and necessary part of grieving, but is a disorder that requires treatment.
Treatment for PGD typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in treating PGD, and can help individuals to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to their persistent grief. Antidepressant medication may also be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Dealing with Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) can be challenging, as the symptoms of this condition can be intense and persistent. However, there are a number of strategies and interventions that can be helpful in managing PGD and improving quality of life.
Some of the most effective ways to deal with PGD include:
Seeking professional help: PGD is a clinical disorder that requires professional treatment. A mental health professional, such as a Counseling psychologist, Clinical psychologist or the Best psychologist delhi, can help you to identify and address the underlying causes of your persistent grief, and can provide you with evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication.
Engaging in self-care activities: Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is crucial when dealing with PGD. This can include engaging in activities that you enjoy, such as exercise, reading, or spending time with friends and family. Additionally, it can be helpful to adopt healthy habits, such as eating a nutritious diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress through mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
Connecting with support networks: PGD can be isolating and overwhelming, but connecting with others who have experienced a similar loss can be incredibly helpful. Support groups, grief counseling, or peer-led support groups can provide a safe and supportive space for you to share your feelings and experiences, and can help you to feel less alone.
Reframing your thoughts: It can be helpful to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that may be contributing to your persistent grief. For example, you may benefit from working with a therapist to reframe thoughts such as "I will never be happy again" to more realistic and hopeful thoughts, such as "I will be happy again, although it may take time."
Finding meaning and purpose: Finding meaning and purpose in the aftermath of a loss can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Engaging in activities that bring you joy, giving back to your community, or connecting with others who share your interests and values can help you to find a sense of purpose and to feel more fulfilled.
In conclusion, PGD is a recently recognized condition that is characterized by persistent and debilitating grief in the aftermath of a significant loss. PGD is different from normal grieving, and can significantly impact an individual's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Treatment for PGD typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication, and can help individuals to move forward with their lives and to find a sense of meaning and purpose in the aftermath of their loss. Dealing with PGD can be difficult, but with the right support and treatment, it is possible to manage this condition and to improve your quality of life. Seeking professional help through Online counseling or by searching for the Best psychologist in India, engaging in self-care activities, connecting with support networks, reframing negative thoughts, and finding meaning and purpose can all be effective strategies for managing PGD.
You may also make an appointment with famous, qualified psychologists at the Psychowellness Centre, for mental health therapy. The center has sites in and around Delhi NCR, NOIDA, Faridabad, Janakpuri, Dwarka, and Vasant Vihar.
Contribution: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist, life coach & mentor TalktoAngel & Ms Aditi Bhardwaj, Psychologist.
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