Grief Is Something Everyone Experiences at Some Point
It’s normal to experience grief after a loss, such as the death of a friend or family member. In most cases, these emotions gradually improve over time. But if you’re still living with the symptoms of grief months or years later, you may have what’s known as “complicated grief,” “prolonged grief,” “chronic grief,” or “persistent complex bereavement disorder.”
What is Complicated Grief?
Grief is a natural response to loss, but when feelings of sadness and longing persist for months or years, it may indicate complicated grief. Many people with complicated grief report feeling “stuck” in life. This condition can leave individuals feeling stuck and unable to move forward, making it hard to enjoy life or return to daily routines. They may have a hard time finding enjoyment in the activities they once loved. A diagnosis is often considered if symptoms last more than six months. Risk factors include a close or difficult relationship with the deceased, a sudden or traumatic loss, lack of support, or a history of mental health issues.
Who Experiences Complicated Grief?
Chronic Grief can affect anyone. With that said, certain circumstances can make this type of grief more likely to occur. For example, you may have a higher chance of experiencing complicated grief if:
- You had a close relationship with the individual who passed away (or conversely, if you had a difficult relationship with that person).
- Your loved one passed unexpectedly or in an especially traumatic way.
- You don’t have a strong support system.
- You’re experiencing stress in other areas of your life.
- You’ve previously experienced depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or separation anxiety.
- You experienced trauma during childhood (e.g., abuse or neglect).
Start Working With a Grief Counselor in Wilmington, NC
If you’re experiencing complicated grief—or any other type of grief—you can rely on our experienced therapists to help you heal from your loss. Our compassionate team members can answer your questions and arrange a time for you to attend an initial therapy appointment. We are happy to be here for you as you navigate grief and overcome the struggles affecting you most. You can start your therapy journey with Evolution Wellness by following these simple steps:
- Reach out to us or call 910-202-4326
- Meet with a caring therapist
- Start coping with grief in a healthier way!
Other Services Offered With Evolution Wellness
Grief counseling isn’t the only service that our team offers. Evolution Wellness understands that you may encounter concerns that need different types of support, which is why we are happy to offer multiple in-person and online mental health services. Other services offered include depression treatment, EMDR, anxiety treatment, disordered eating, CBT, substance abuse, trauma, and Covid counseling. We are also happy to offer therapy for a variety of issues including LGBTQIA+ issues, women’s issues, men’s issues, therapy for vicarious trauma, and therapy for military families. Our trained clinicians know that family concerns can require unique care, so we are happy to also offer couples therapy, family therapy, divorce counseling, and sex therapy, in addition to therapy for young adults and teens.