Complicated Bereavement: Definitions, Diagnosis, and Implications.

Grief is a natural response to loss. Bereavement is a universal biopsychosocial phenomenon, yet each individual has unique ways of expressing their loss. This recognition raises the question as to when the range of symptoms are typical and require no therapeutic intervention and when psychotherapeutic intervention is indicated. At present no criteria based definition of complicated bereavement exists. This limits access to services, presents risks of misdiagnosis, and/or inappropriate treatment. This review of the literature provides definitions of uncomplicated and complicated bereavement; and explores commonly used diagnostic categories related to complications in bereavement. Differing perspectives regarding the tendency to utilize the diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) are highlighted. A separate diagnostic category for complicated bereavement is recommended. Contains 30 references. (JBJ)