Grief and Loss Therapy in Dubai
Understanding Grief and Loss
Causes of Grief and Loss
Grief is caused by a combination of psychological, emotional, and situational factors. The study titled “Prolonged Grief Disorder: Course, Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment” by Szuhany et al. (2021) indicates that individuals with a history of depression or anxiety, as well as those lacking adequate social support, are at greater risk of developing prolonged grief disorder. Furthermore, sudden or traumatic losses, such as accidents or suicide, significantly increase the likelihood of more intense and prolonged grief reactions compared to expected losses.
Diagnosis of Prolonged Grief Gisorder
Symptoms of Grief
- Deep Sadness: A profound sense of sorrow and longing for what has been lost.
- Denial and Shock: Initial difficulty in accepting the loss, feeling numb or in disbelief.
- Anger: Feelings of frustration or anger towards the situation, others, oneself, or even the deceased.
- Guilt and Regret: Thoughts of what could have been done differently, or feelings of guilt over unresolved issues.
- Anxiety and Fear: Concerns about the future or coping with life without the lost person or situation.
- Loneliness and Isolation: Feeling alone in one's grief, even when surrounded by others.
- Physical Symptoms: Physical manifestations of grief, such as fatigue, changes in appetite, or sleep disturbances.
Treatment Options for Grief and Loss
At our practice in Dubai we offer a holistic and empathetic approach to grief counseling. Doing that we are using methods such as Narrative Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). These approaches allow individuals to process their emotions, honor their loss, and find new meaning. Narrative therapy helps patients reframe their experiences and develop healthier perspectives on their loss, while MBCT integrates mindfulness to reduce the emotional burden of grief. Zita treats both adults and children, recognizing that grief manifests differently across ages but requires equally compassionate care.
When You Should Seek Help with Grief
Grief is a natural process, and many individuals experience a gradual decrease in symptoms over time. However, some people may struggle with more persistent or intense grief that disrupts their daily life. According to a study titled “Looking beyond the mean in grief trajectories: A prospective, population-based cohort study” by Nielsen et al. (2019), about 7-10% of grieving individuals experience high levels of grief that remain stable or even increase over time. Additionally, factors like low education and lack of social support can lead to adverse grief trajectories. If feelings of sadness, isolation, or emotional numbness persist for months without improvement, it may be time to seek professional support. Zita provides compassionate, evidence-based care to help individuals manage their grief and regain a sense of balance in their lives.
I am Zita Chriszto, a DHA licensed clinical psychologist based in Dubai. My professional approach is deeply rooted in providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Grief and Its Treatment
How long does normal grief last?
Normal grief often lessens within six months to a year. While emotions such as sadness and longing may remain, most people adapt to life after loss. If grief persists or worsens beyond this period, it could indicate complicated grief, requiring professional intervention.
Is it normal to feel numb during grief?
Yes, feeling numb is a common response to grief, particularly in the early stages. This emotional numbness is a defense mechanism, allowing the body to process overwhelming emotions slowly. If numbness persists for months, it may signal the need for therapeutic support.
Can children experience grief differently than adults?
Children often express grief through changes in behavior, such as withdrawal or aggression, rather than verbalizing emotions. According to the Child Mind Institute, children may also exhibit physical symptoms like stomachaches. Professional guidance can help children process grief in a healthy way.
What are the signs of complicated grief?
Complicated grief includes prolonged longing for the deceased, difficulty accepting the loss, and intense emotional pain that disrupts daily life. If these symptoms last beyond six months, professional support is recommended to address unresolved grief effectively.
Can grief lead to depression?
Yes, grief can sometimes develop into depression, particularly if the emotional pain persists without improvement. If feelings of hopelessness, lack of motivation, or deep sadness continue for months, professional support may be necessary to distinguish grief from depression.
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Phone/Whatsapp: +971 58 566 9327
E-Mail: info@dubaipsychology.ae
Our location
Doctor Reuter Medical Center
Villa 585b, Jumeirah St
Umm Suqeim 1
Dubai, UAE
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