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Grief





Grief

Alternative Names:

Mourning; Grieving; Bereavement
Symptoms:

There are typically 5 stages of grief. These reactions do not occur in a specific order, and may (at times) show simultaneously. Not all of these emotions are necessarily experienced:

  • Denial, disbelief, numbness
  • Anger, blaming others
  • Bargaining (e.g., "If I am cured of this cancer, I will never smoke again.")
  • Depressed mood, sadness, and crying
  • Acceptance, coming to terms

Individuals who are grieving will frequently report crying spells, some trouble sleeping, and difficulty being productive at work.


Signs and tests:
  • Prolonged symptoms may lead to clinical depression.
  • Physiological signs of depression may be present, such as sleep and appetite disturbance.



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