I've only recently found out about complicated grief (sometimes called persistent complex bereavement disorder) and I've been wondering a few things about it.
- Is it more prevalent than what is known? Like most mental disorders, it is most likely under reported, but I wonder by how much.
- Is the diagnosis necessary? Sometimes I wonder if pathologizing/labeling extreme emotions can be more harmful than helpful.
- Grief, in general, is observed in many animal species. This suggests its beneficial for survival, but I wonder in what way? Or maybe not at all?
I'm open to discussions of these questions! Plus, if anyone has any personal experience and would like to share I'd love to hear about it.
That is a very interesting topic to study and do research on. I have not yet come across it, so great information!
I do not have an information on this, but I will come back to this question's replies once in a while! I am wondering everybody's answers.
Hey Marisa, great topic, as complicated grief is something not many people are aware of. Whether it develops or not actually largely depends on a person's chemical makeup. Also, previous history of depression or PTSD are also contributing factors.
Complicated grief usually misidentity as depression may be that's why it is under reported.
In my opinion, labelling is important. For example; we put labels on our jars in kitchen what is what. If we put a ingredient that is not suppose to go in certain recipe. What we will get? A mess.
Labelling disorders not only helpful for practitioners but also for patients too. Patients get accurate diagnosis and treatment.