Are There Different Types Of Grief?

Yes! Believe it or not there are different types of grief and this explains why we all grieve so differently! Upon googling grief I discovered all of the different types and in this blog post I am going to name and explain a few of the most common types of grief in a short summary.

Anticipatory Grief

Anticipatory Grief is the reaction to a death you were able to anticipate which usually occurs when a loved one dies from a long term illness. Once you have accepted and understood that your loved one is going to die, you have already started grieving. This form of grief can be difficult and confusing because you are grieving someone who is currently still here. You grieve not only the anticipated loss of your loved one but also the changes to come with the family structure and roles. It may even make you feel a lack of hope for the future. Although anticipatory grief doesn't make the final grieving process any easier, it can slowly allow you to prepare for it and to spend meaningful time with your loved one.

Complicated Grief

Complicated Grief involves debilitating feelings of loss that impair your daily life and activities. It can be impossible to even get out of bed for some, you may not eat or be able to work and may be experiencing chronic distress and panic attacks. Seeking help from your GP or a grief charity can often be a helpful option.

Delayed Grief

This type of grief refers to grief symptoms that are not experienced until a long time after a loved one has passed. The griever has been avoiding the grief, pain and loss and the emotions and reactions associated with this for a long time. Sometimes a trigger can set the grieving emotions off.

Cumulative Grief

Experiencing a second loss whilst still grieving a first loss is referred to as 'Cumulative Grief.' This type of grief can cause severe emotions and reactions and is often associated with high levels of anxiety and fear of other loved ones dying. This type of grief is common following the loss of parents and grandparents within a short space of time.

Exaggerated Grief

Much more intense and overwhelming than regular feelings of grief - Exaggerated grief involves extreme grief reactions which can include nightmares, suicidal thoughts, psychiatric disorders, drug abuse and more.

There are many more types of grief but these definitely stood out as some of the most common types of grief. There is no right or wrong way to grieve and we all grieve differently. If you find yourself struggling with your grief please seek help from your GP or by speaking to one of our recommended charities.

Our engraved photo memorial jewellery has long been a comfort for our customers experiencing grief and loss and we hope that you may also find it a comfort during this heart breaking time. xoxo