COMPLICATED GRIEF

Course overview

Grief—defined as a reaction to major loss characterized by a period of sorrow, emotional numbness, and, in some cases, guilt and anger—is a healthy, normal response to losing a loved one that usually fades as the affected person accepts the loss. When this grief state persists, it becomes complicated by a persistent lack of acceptance and debilitation in the affected person. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of relevant research regarding complicated grief, including evidence-based information on risk, symptoms, clinical presentation, treatment, and treatment goals for the healthcare provider, and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.