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Managing Grief After Disaster (Part 4)

Treatment of Bereaved Individuals

Grief support groups and grief counseling are widespread and undoubtedly highly variable. Little information is available related to support group and counseling outcome. There is specific controversy regarding the importance of confronting the death (also called grief work) in the early phase of grief.

It goes without saying that the loss of a close relationship permanently affects the bereaved person. It is not reasonable to think that one can recover from such a loss or resolve the loss. Such a loss is permanent and has permanent effects on the bereaved. Still, it is possible and important that the bereaved person will eventually have comforting memories of the deceased and feel interested in and able to engage in life. A person who has lost someone should eventually have

  • The ability to give energy to everyday life
  • Psychological comfort, or freedom from pain and distress
  • The ability to experience satisfaction and gratification in life
  • Hopefulness for the future
  • The ability to function adequately in a range of social roles

The Role of a Professional in the Early Phase of Disaster Bereavement

Although even after sudden, violent death, most people eventually grieve successfully, the initial process can take a long time. Many people consider grief to be a personal experience and so do not turn to mental health professionals for help with grief. However, when a loss is sudden and violent, the intensity of emotions can be frightening and the need for support and outside intervention greater. In response, the professional needs to engage in a skilled, supportive intervention. Useful components of such an intervention include

  • Providing information about grief and its symptoms, course, and complications
  • Evaluating the nature of the individual's distress
  • Helping to identify and solve practical problems
  • Providing strategies for management of intense feelings
  • Helping the person think about the death in a way that leads to emotional resolution

During the early phase of bereavement, it may be very useful to provide information and strategies for thinking about the death. It is best if the professional provides some follow-up and remains available for consultation and support, should this be needed.

Even given its private nature, variable course, and usual resolution, there are circumstances in which grief can be intense and prolonged, hindering reengagement in daily activities. When this occurs, a focused intervention may be needed. There is wide acknowledgment that bereavement can be prolonged and that it can lead to other mental health problems, especially depression and anxiety.

Shear, K. (Updated 2022, October 6). Managing grief after disaster. Retrieved December 8, 2022, from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.ptsd.va.gov

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