Five types of Grief: Understanding How Grief Can Look Different
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC
There are many types of grief, and understanding how grief can show up may help you make sense of your emotions after a loss. Grief comes in many shapes and sizes, but did you know it also comes in different types? Grief is a universal experience, but what and how you grieve will be unique. Grief emotions feel overwhelming and sometimes difficult to identify. The National Institute of Health identified five types of grief. The five types of grief are: anticipatory grief, acute grief, normal grief, disenfranchised grief, and complicated grief. I will give a brief explanation of each of the five types of grief that might help you identify yours.
Five Types of Grief explained
Anticipatory Grief
Anticipatory grief is experiencing strong emotions of grief before the actual loss. There are situations where, logically, we understand that death will be the unfortunate outcome. Even though our brain understands this, it does not stop the emotional response.
Acute Grief
Acute grief is the phase right after the loss. Emotions can range from shock, confusion, stress, and deep sadness. There is no definite time frame for this type of grief. Many people struggle with change in life and identity during this time.
Normal Grief
Normal grief is the expression and emotions of loss that are congruent with the loss. The feelings and behaviors may not feel “normal” in the moment, but are well-documented responses to grief.
Disenfranchised Grief
Disenfranchised grief could happen when the loss is not considered socially acceptable. This can lead to strong emotions of shame, guilt, and hopelessness.
Complicated Grief
Complicated grief is when the grieving process is intense and ongoing. The symptoms of grief have been troubling and affecting their daily responsibilities for over a year after the loss.
Why Understanding Your Grief Can Help
Understanding the type of grief, you are experiencing can help organize your emotions and thoughts during this difficult time. Identifying the type of grief you are experiencing can help make it feel slightly more contained and tangible. Grief is already confusing and devastating; identifying the type of grief you are experiencing is one less thing you have to struggle with. Grief can affect your emotions, behaviors, thoughts, and even your physical health. Learning about common grief reactions can also help you understand some of the changes you may notice after a loss.
Begin Grief Therapy in Katy, TX!
If you feel like you or someone you love could benefit from counseling related to grief and loss. Let one of the therapists at The Center at Cinco Ranch help! We provide grief counseling as well as other mental health services. To begin counseling in Katy, TX, follow these three steps:
- Contact our office to set up an appointment or to learn more information
- Meet with one of our knowledgeable therapists
- Find ways to thrive through therapy today!
Other Therapy Services We Offer:
Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, men’s issues, women’s issues, anxiety treatment, depression therapy, trauma counseling, family therapy, and group counseling. Our therapists strive to post blogs regularly. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. To learn more about our therapists and our counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!
