Grief and Prolonged Grief Disorder

Grief and bereavement are universal human experiences, particularly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, environmental disasters, and gun-related violence. The DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 now include prolonged grief disorder (PGD) as a formal diagnosis. This new handbook provides a science-based approach to identifying and addressing PGD, with chapters on bereavement, grief in children, cultural factors, stigma, and treatment. PGD can have severe consequences, so recognizing and treating it quickly is essential.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 02 October 2023
Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing

Grief and bereavement are deeply intertwined aspects of the human experience, impacting individuals across various contexts. The impact of grief on human lives has become increasingly apparent in recent years, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, environmental disasters, and gun-related violence in the United States.

While grief has always been a part of human existence, its significance has been amplified by these traumatic events, exposing vast segments of society to recurring and profound trauma.

Recognizing the need for comprehensive support, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) have recently included prolonged grief disorder (PGD) as a formal diagnosis. This recognition reflects significant scientific progress in understanding and addressing this condition.

In response to this need, a new handbook titled "Grief and Prolonged Grief Disorder: A Science-Based Approach" has been published. This comprehensive guide aims to provide both clinical and non-clinical readers with a science-based approach to identifying and addressing PGD.

The handbook is organized into extensively referenced chapters, each filled with illustrative case studies. These case studies help to shed light on the diverse experiences of grief and provide practical insights into clinical management and treatment strategies.

Topics covered in the handbook include:

What constitutes bereavement: Understanding the different types of bereavement and their impact on individuals.

How simple bereavement differs from PGD: Recognizing the distinguishing features of PGD and its clinical management.

Grief in children and the importance of a life cycle approach: Recognizing the unique challenges of grief in children and the importance of a holistic approach that considers their developmental stages.

Cultural factors and their impact on the experience of grief: Exploring how cultural differences influence the expression and understanding of grief.

Stigma and attitudes toward treatment: Addressing the stigma associated with grief and promoting positive attitudes toward treatment.

Diagnosing and treating PGD: Providing a comprehensive guide to diagnosing PGD and implementing effective treatment strategies.

The consequences of PGD are far-reaching and profound. They include suffering, social isolation and loneliness, poor physical health, shortened life expectancy, and even suicide. It is therefore critical that PGD be recognized and treated as quickly as possible.

The handbook offers valuable resources for individuals seeking support and guidance in navigating the complexities of grief. Its evidence-based approach provides readers with the tools they need to recognize grief in themselves and others, strategies for the clinical management of typical grief, guidance on the specific treatment for PGD, and tips on when to refer patients for specialty care.

By providing a comprehensive and science-based approach to grief and PGD, this handbook aims to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities affected by these profound experiences. It serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to understand and support those who are grieving, and to promote a greater understanding of the importance of grief in our lives.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781615374632