Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)
Prolonged Grief Disorder, newly recognized in DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, occurs when the natural grieving process after the loss of a loved one becomes chronic, intense, and disabling. While grief is universal, PGD involves persistent yearning, emotional pain, and difficulty moving forward more than 12 months after the loss (6 months in children/adolescents).
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)
Prolonged Grief Disorder, newly recognized in DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, occurs when the natural grieving process after the loss of a loved one becomes chronic, intense, and disabling. While grief is universal, PGD involves persistent yearning, emotional pain, and difficulty moving forward more than 12 months after the loss (6 months in children/adolescents). Individuals with PGD feel “stuck” in mourning, unable to re-engage in life, with ongoing feelings of emptiness, bitterness, or disbelief about the loss. It is different from depression, though the two may overlap. In Saudi Arabia, strong cultural and religious rituals surrounding death often provide support for grieving families. However, when grief is complicated by sudden loss, lack of closure, or ongoing stressors, PGD may develop but remain hidden under the assumption that prolonged grief is a sign of deep faith or loyalty.
What constitutes PGD?
Persistent, intense grief lasting beyond culturally expected norms (12+ months in adults, 6+ months in children) with significant impairment in functioning.
Symptoms and warning signs
- Persistent yearning or longing for the deceased
- Difficulty accepting the death
- Preoccupation with memories or circumstances of the death
- Avoidance of reminders of the loss
- Emotional numbness or bitterness
- Impaired daily functioning and social withdrawal
Causes and risk factors
- Sudden, traumatic, or violent loss
- Loss of a child or spouse
- Lack of social support
- Previous history of depression, anxiety, or trauma
Treatment approaches
- Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT): specialized therapy combining CBT and grief processing
- CBT: restructuring unhelpful thoughts and encouraging re-engagement in life
- Group therapy and support groups: sharing with others who have experienced loss
- Medication: SSRIs may help if depression co-occurs
Why Act Center for Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia?
Our experienced Therapist in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia provide compassionate treatment to help patients process their loss and reconnect with life.
Get Professional Support
Our experienced team is here to help you navigate prolonged grief disorder (pgd) with evidence-based treatment and compassionate care.
Explore Our Services
We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services tailored to support you on your journey to wellness.