Grief and Loss

Risk factors

The risk factors for the development of complicated grief include:

• When the loss was unexpected or shocking
• When there was a high dependence on the individual who passed away
• When there was multiple loss within a short period of time
• History of a mental health condition such as depression, PTSD, substance use disorder

Causes

The influencing factors for complicated grief include:

• ​Intense feelings of loneliness, yearnings, or emotions relating to the loss
• Intrusive memories or fantasies about the deceased loved one
• Avoidance of people, places, or activities that are reminders of the loss
• Ongoing sleep disturbance
• Significant impact on interest in usual activities