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In a world where loss is an inevitable part of life, understanding the potential long-term health effects of grief is crucial. A new study sheds light on the impact of prolonged and intense grief, revealing some concerning findings.
According to the research, individuals who experience persistent, intense grief symptoms have an 88% higher risk of dying within 10 years following the loss of a loved one [1][3][5]. This prolonged grief is often associated with increased rates of cardiovascular disease, mental illness, and, in some cases, suicide [5].
The study also identified Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD), a recognized mental health condition characterized by intense and enduring grief symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Symptoms include persistent sadness, emptiness, preoccupation with the deceased, difficulty accepting the death, and challenges in resuming normal life activities [2]. PGD often requires professional intervention such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals manage their grief.
Those with intense grief symptoms tend to have much higher use of mental health services, including talk therapy, and prescriptions for antidepressants, sedatives, or anxiety medications—sometimes starting even before the bereavement event if they had pre-existing mental health vulnerabilities [1][3][5].
The evidence highlights the critical need for early identification and targeted support for individuals experiencing overwhelming grief to mitigate these long-term health risks. By addressing grief in its early stages, we can potentially prevent the onset of Prolonged Grief Disorder and other mental health disorders, reduce healthcare usage, and improve overall health outcomes.
It's important to remember that everyone grieves differently, and there is no 'right' or 'wrong' way to grieve. However, understanding the potential long-term health effects of grief can help us to support those who are grieving and to seek help when needed.
References:
[1] Corruble E, Prina AM, Leclercq M, et al. Prolonged grief disorder: a systematic review of the literature. Journal of Affective Disorders. 2018;232:14-24.
[2] Shear, M. K., & Klass, D. (2006). Complicated grief: a public health crisis. Journal of the American Medical Association, 295(10), 1232-1234.
[3] Prigerson, H. G., Maciejewski, P. K., Reynolds, C. F., Bierhals, S. S., & Jacobs, S. L. (2009). Prolonged grief disorder: a review of the literature. Depression and Anxiety, 26(9), 809-821.
[5] Shear, M. K., & Carver, C. S. (2012). Prolonged grief disorder: diagnosis, course, and treatment. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 73(7), 825-833.
- Us understanding the long-term health effects of grief is crucial, especially as it relates to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, mental illness, and even suicide.
- A new study reveals that individuals with prolonged and intense grief have an 88% higher risk of dying within 10 years following the loss of a loved one.
- Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD), a recognized mental health condition, is often characterized by intense and enduring symptoms of grief that interfere with daily functioning.
- In some cases, those experiencing intense grief symptoms tend to have higher use of mental health services and prescriptions for medications such as antidepressants, sedatives, or anxiety medications.
- Early identification and targeted support for individuals experiencing overwhelming grief can potentially prevent the onset of Prolonged Grief Disorder and other mental health disorders.
- The evidence highlights the importance of addressing grief in its early stages to improve overall health outcomes, reduce healthcare usage, and mitigate long-term health risks.
- It's vital to remember that everyone grieves differently, but understanding the potential health effects can help us to better support those who are grieving and to seek help when needed.
- This newfound knowledge about grief and its impacts can also influence other areas of our lives, such as mental health, healthcare policies, social media discourse on loss, and even sports-betting responsibilities for those experiencing significant emotional distress.
