7 Types of Grief: How They Differ + How To Handle Them

Introduction

Grief is a natural reaction to loss or change. There are many types of grief that people experience in different ways. Learning to recognize the type of grief you or a loved one is experiencing can help you better understand the associated thoughts and feelings.

Types of Grief

1. Anticipatory Grief

Anticipatory grief involves mourning a loss before it occurs. This is common when someone has a terminal illness. Feeling sad at the prospect of losing a loved one is natural.

2. Acute Grief

Acute grief occurs immediately after a loss. There can be intense and painful emotions like shock, anger, guilt, sadness, and despair. Taking time to process these feelings is important for healing.

3. Integrated Grief

Integrated grief incorporates the loss as part of your life story over time. While sadness may linger, daily functioning improves. Cherished memories can become comforting.

4. Delayed Grief

Delayed grief arises when someone avoids painful emotions for a period before ultimately confronting them. There may be an intense flood of feelings. Be patient with yourself during this process.

5. Exaggerated Grief

Exaggerated grief involves overwhelming emotions that disrupt life activities longer than typically expected. Counseling or support groups can help regain balance.

6. Prolonged Grief

Prolonged grief occurs when acute grief symptoms significantly persist beyond six months. Feelings of bitterness and hopelessness may arise. Seeking professional help is recommended.

7. Disenfranchised Grief

Disenfranchised grief happens when a loss isn’t openly acknowledged or socially supported. For example, miscarriage or losing an ex-spouse. Find empathetic listeners who can provide comfort.

Coping with Grief

Give yourself permission to fully experience whatever emotions arise, even if they feel foreign or uncomfortable at first. Know that the intensity will lessen with time. Stay hydrated, get adequate rest, eat nutritious foods, move your body, and limit alcohol when possible.

Consider joining a support group to feel less alone. Read books about grief so you better understand your experience. Talk openly with trusted loved ones. Journal, create art, volunteer in remembrance – find outlets for self-expression.

If feelings become overwhelming, seek counseling. There’s no shame in needing help. Everyone’s grief journey is unique. You’ll regain a sense of peace, purpose and joy when the time is right.

FAQ

What are the 7 types of grief?

The 7 types of grief are: (1) Anticipatory grief, (2) Acute grief, (3) Integrated grief, (4) Delayed grief, (5) Exaggerated grief, (6) Prolonged grief, and (7) Disenfranchised grief.

How long does grief last?

There’s no set timeline for grief. Acute grief may improve in 6-12 months for some, while others have more long-lasting grief for years. Stay patient, get support, and know that all emotions are valid.

What helps with grief?

Self care strategies like getting proper rest, eating healthy foods, exercising, journaling, talking with trusted friends, joining support groups, reading educational books, and seeking counseling if needed can all help with navigating grief.

Is crying everyday normal when grieving?

Yes, crying every day is a very normal reaction when first grieving a major loss. Tears help the body process and release intense emotions. Let yourself cry as needed while also practicing regular self-care.

When should I be concerned about grief?

See a mental health professional if grief makes functioning very difficult for over 6 months, if suicidal thoughts or self-harm impulses arise, or if coping mechanisms like drugs, alcohol or high risk behaviors increase.