In the article Grief 101: The Basics of Grief, we explored the definitions of loss, grief, and mourning. We also looked at some basic ideas to keep in mind as we move through grief. Now, let’s dive into 7 types of grief. Each have their own unique flavor. Understanding what type (or types) of grief you are experiencing can help you navigate your experience.
1. Anticipatory Grief
Anticipatory grief occurs before the actual loss takes place. It is often experienced when we expect the death or loss of a loved one due to a terminal illness or old age. During this type of grief, we may find ourselves processing emotions in advance, preparing for the inevitable parting.
Anticipatory grief can involve feelings of sadness, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future. It may also lead to a desire to spend quality time with the person facing the terminal illness and engage in open conversations about their wishes and feelings.
2. Disenfranchised Grief
Disenfranchised grief refers to losses that society may not fully acknowledge or validate, leading to a sense of isolation in the grieving process. It includes losses such as the end of a non-traditional relationship, the loss of a pet, suicide, or estrangement (such as limited or no contact with an emotionally abusive parents).
Individuals experiencing disenfranchised grief may feel hesitant to openly express their emotions due to societal norms or expectations that their loss is not as significant as traditional bereavements.
3. Collective Grief
Collective grief is experienced by a community, nation, or the world as a whole. It arises from shared emotional experiences in response to a collective loss, such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or pandemics. During collective grief, individuals find a sense of togetherness and connection as they process their emotions.
Collective grief often leads to a shared expression of sorrow and solidarity, with people coming together to offer support and comfort to one another.
4. Secondary Grief
Secondary grief is experienced by those who are indirectly impacted by a primary loss. It often results from their support of others or witnessing traumatic events. During this type of grief, individuals may feel emotionally affected by the grief experienced by someone else.
Individuals experiencing secondary grief may find themselves empathetically feeling the emotions of those they are supporting, leading to additional emotional stress.
5. Traumatic Grief
Traumatic loss is characterized by sudden, unexpected, and often violent events. These losses can shake us to our core, as they challenge our sense of security and predictability in life.
Traumatic grief may involve feelings of shock, disbelief, and difficulty coming to terms with the sudden and violent nature of the loss.
6. Cumulative Grief
Cumulative loss involves a series of losses, one following another in rapid succession. This cascade of losses can lead to ongoing and unresolved grief, as the accumulation of emotions becomes increasingly complex.
Cumulative grief can lead to a sense of being emotionally overwhelmed as one loss follows another without sufficient time to fully process each one.
7. Complicated / Prolonged Grief
Complicated grief is long-lasting and significantly impacts daily functioning, potentially leading to a diagnosis of Prolonged Grief Disorder.
Individuals struggling with complicated grief may find it difficult to engage in regular activities, maintain relationships, or experience joy and pleasure in life.
Grief comes in various forms and affects individuals uniquely. Understanding the different types of grief can help us acknowledge our feelings and find support in our unique journeys. It is essential to remember that grief is a natural response to loss, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve.
If you need support in your grieving, I’d be happy to provide a consult to see how I might be able to help. You can book that here. For those living in Arizona, I offer individual and group counseling. For those living anywhere, I provide educational, supportive, and experiential wellness services.
