Bereaving the loss of a loved one is one of the most difficult human emotions to experience.  Often it will be through death, but it can also be other losses such as a love relationship, a loved pet, or former way of life. Everyone grieves differently and this often depends on the experience of the loss.  It may be that the loss was unexpected with no chance to prepare or it could have been a long and drawn out or unjustified loss.  It may be that you have experienced a number of losses in a short period of time.  

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Just as it is normal to grieve your loss and there is no set time for "normal" grieving.  If you feel that you have reoccurring persistent symptoms that are not improving naturally, if your experience of grief is worsening, or you are unable to accept the reality of the loss after a lengthy time, you may be experiencing complicated grief. 

 

Complicated grief differs from both depression and normal grief with symptoms including persistent efforts to ignore, block or deny what happened.  Complicated grief can be associated with increases in risk of physical and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, suicidal thoughts and behaviours as well as increased susceptibility to physical illnesses.  It may be that you notice a loss of enjoyment of previously enjoyable activities, or find yourself isolating from others.  It may be you are experiencing nightmares or distressing memories about the loss.    

Most often grieving is a natural process and when supported by friends and family with the healing effect of time, does not require intervention from professionals.  If this is not your experience, it may be time to seek some professional support.

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Please see your GP in the first instance for a review of your mental health and potential diagnosis to assist treatment.