What Is Prolonged Grief Disorder?
Prolonged Grief Disorder, which is also referred to as persistent complex bereavement disorder in earlier drafts of the DSM, is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intense grief that does not improve with time. While normal grief reactions can vary widely and fluctuate in intensity, PGD involves ongoing intense emotional pain, emotional numbness, and difficulty accepting the loss for at least 12 months (or 6 months for children and adolescents) after the death of a loved one.
In other words, prolonged grief is a more intense experience than the traditional grief that most people deal with. While normal grief can impact your ability to function in daily life, prolonged grief causes these reactions for a longer period and at a higher intensity.
According to the DSM-5-TR, individuals with PGD may experience:[1]
- Persistent longing or yearning for the deceased
- Identity disruption (e.g., feeling a part of oneself has died)
- Difficulty re-engaging with life
- Emotional pain that impairs daily functioning
- Avoidance of reminders of the deceased person
- Significant social or occupational impairment
These symptoms must cause significant distress and be clearly beyond what is expected within the context of cultural or religious norms surrounding death.
Prevalence and Risk Factors
According to recent findings published in the New England Journal of Medicine, approximately 7-10% of bereaved individuals develop PGD.[2]
Your risk of experiencing prolonged grief is elevated under traumatic circumstances such as:
- Unexpected or violent death (e.g., suicide, accident, homicide)
- Death of a romantic partner or child
- Lack of a support system
- History of clinical depression or other mental disorders
- Social isolation or inadequate bereavement support groups
Older adults and those who experience multiple losses in a short period may also be more vulnerable. Social support groups, grief therapy, and access to mental health professionals can help prevent the development of prolonged grief disorder or complicated grief.
Symptoms of Prolonged Grief Disorder and Complicated Grief
Although related, complicated grief and PGD are not interchangeable. Complicated grief includes a broader set of symptoms and may co-occur with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety.
Common symptoms of prolonged grief disorder include:
- Persistent and intense grief and sadness
- Emotional numbness or inability to feel pleasure (positive mood suppression)
- Self-blame or guilt about the loved one’s death
- Intrusive thoughts about the deceased
- Death avoidance behaviors
- Difficulty trusting others
- Impairment in daily living or social functioning
These experiences often extend beyond the grieving process and require clinical intervention to prevent long-term mental and physical health consequences, including increased risk for heart disease and suicidal ideation.
Because of the risks associated with prolonged grief disorder, you should always seek help from a mental health professional. Therapy and behavioral interventions can be highly successful in managing PGD. In some cases, antidepressants are used to manage therapy-resistant symptoms or provide short-term relief.
Evidence-Based Treatments in New Jersey
Our treatment center in New Jersey offers a wide array of evidence-based treatments for Prolonged Grief Disorder to help clients process and adapt to their loss.
Some of your options for treatment include:
1. Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT)
CGT is one of the most researched and effective approaches for treating prolonged grief disorder. Developed specifically to treat complicated grief, it combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy.
A randomized clinical trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that individuals receiving CGT had significantly better outcomes than those receiving standard supportive therapy.[2]
CGT helps patients:
- Confront painful emotions
- Strengthen their support system
- Rebuild relationships and social functioning
- Reduce death avoidance behaviors
- Reengage with life goals and pursue interests
2. Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)
IPT focuses on resolving interpersonal issues and role transitions that accompany the death of a significant role figure, such as a spouse or parent. It supports clients in expressing emotions, improving communication, and navigating the creation of a new reality post-loss.
3. Grief Support Groups
Community-based support groups across New Jersey, from Bergen County to Camden, provide group therapy facilitated by trained mental health experts or social workers. These groups allow for shared experiences and validation of feelings, which can be crucial for healing.
When to Seek Help
It is essential to distinguish between normal grief and PGD. If symptoms persist beyond one year and interfere with daily life, individuals should seek the help of a licensed mental health professional.
Indicators that you or someone you know may need treatment:
- You are unable to return to work or social activities
- You experience severe emotional distress at reminders of the deceased loved one
- You notice a persistent longing that prevents moving forward
- You engage in an avoidance of places or events once shared with the deceased
- You find yourself unable to experience positive experiences or form new relationships due to your grief
If there is any risk of harm, always contact the local emergency services number or a crisis hotline immediately.
Get Connected to Treatment for Prolonged Grief Disorder
Grieving is not something one “gets over.” But with the right care, even the most painful emotions can be understood, processed, and eventually integrated into a positive outcome.
For New Jersey residents struggling with Prolonged Grief Disorder, compassionate, evidence-based treatments and a wealth of support systems are available.
If you or someone you love is experiencing persistent grief, don’t wait. Reach out to Renewed Light Mental Health to get started in your healing process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Prolonged Grief Disorder Treatment in New Jersey
1. Is Prolonged Grief Disorder treatment covered by insurance in New Jersey?
Yes, most insurance plans, including both public (like Medicaid and Medicare) and private, cover mental health treatment for Prolonged Grief Disorder when it is diagnosed by a licensed professional. Your coverage will typically include therapy sessions, psychiatric evaluations, and, in some cases, medications if co-occurring conditions like depression are present. You should always contact your insurance provider directly to confirm specific coverage.
2. Can children and teenagers develop Prolonged Grief Disorder?
Yes, children and adolescents can develop PGD, especially after the loss of a parent, sibling, or close caregiver. Their symptoms may present differently than in adults, often through behavioral issues, social withdrawal, or trouble in school. Pediatric mental health professionals in New Jersey are trained to recognize and treat grief-related disorders in younger individuals.
3. What should I expect during my first therapy session for PGD?
Your first session typically involves a clinical assessment, during which the therapist will ask about your relationship with the deceased, the timeline of your symptoms, your daily functioning, and any mental health history. From there, a personalized treatment plan will be developed, which may include weekly therapy, coping strategies, and referrals to group or family support services.
4. Are medications ever used in treating Prolonged Grief Disorder?
While there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for PGD, some individuals may benefit from antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications if they are experiencing co-occurring conditions like clinical depression or generalized anxiety disorder. Medication is usually prescribed in combination with therapy, not as a standalone treatment.
5. How long does treatment for Prolonged Grief Disorder usually last?
Treatment length varies depending on the severity of your symptoms and your progress. Many people benefit from 12 to 20 sessions of Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), although some may need ongoing support over several months. Therapy duration can be adjusted as needed, based on clinical goals and emotional readiness.
6. What if my grief doesn't meet the criteria for PGD, but I’m still struggling?
You don’t need a formal diagnosis to seek help. Many people experience distressing grief that doesn’t meet clinical thresholds but still impacts daily life. Support groups, short-term counseling, and wellness programs can offer meaningful relief. Seeking early support can also help prevent the development of more serious mental health conditions.