Understanding Traumatic Grief: Definition, Symptoms and Coping Strategies

Explore the nature of traumatic grief, identify its symptoms, and discover effective tools and resources to help the healing process.

Losing a loved one is one of the greatest stressors an individual can face—profoundly impacting every aspect of their life. Most bereaved individuals navigate a period of intense grief that reduces with time. Some people experience a more intense form of grief that is called traumatic grief, also known as complicated grief. Both forms of grief involve complex emotions however traumatic grief is long lasting, with enduring symptoms that affect all aspects of a person's life. Understanding what traumatic grief is, how it works and the relationship between grief and trauma is crucial for providing appropriate support to those who are struggling with this profound and enduring anguish.

What is Traumatic Grief?

Traumatic grief is defined as a condition where an individual experiences an intense and prolonged period of mourning that significantly impairs their ability to function in daily life. It occurs when an individual has suffered the traumatic loss of a loved one that is sudden, unexpected, or particularly distressing. 

For example, in traumatic death there is a tendency for the mind to stay focused on the circumstances of the death, including preoccupations with how the loss could have been prevented, what the last moments were like and issues of accountability. 

Traumatic grief reactions include intrusive, disturbing images of the manner of death that interfere with positive remembering and reminiscing, delay in the onset of healthy grief reactions, retreat from close relationships with family and friends and avoidance of usual activities because they are reminders of the traumatic loss. The unforeseen experience creates distressing conditions and leaves the bereaved individual struggling to process their emotions and move forward. 

What is the Process of Traumatic Grief?

Traumatic grief changes the mourning process, placing individuals on a different timeline than what may be expected by other family members. Societal expectations can lead to self-criticism, as the bereaved feel pressured to meet unrealistic standards. This external pressure can significantly hinder the healing process, making it more challenging for the individual to cope and recover. The detrimental impact of these environmental dynamics highlights the importance of understanding and support in grieving journey.

Individuals experiencing traumatic grief are more vulnerable to additional mental health issues. The persistent state of distress not only magnifies their grief but makes them higher risk candidates of developing other mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, there are effective tools and strategies available to help them cope and heal. Therapeutic interventions such as specialized grief counseling, practicing stress-management and self-care routines, reaching out to the community, and planning ahead, can provide the necessary support and guidance to navigate this challenging period. 

By utilizing these resources, individuals can find ways to manage their grief, reduce the risk of further mental health complications, and ultimately, embark on a path toward healing and recovery.

How Does One Know if it is Traumatic Grief?

While grief is a natural response to loss, traumatic grief involves persistent and intense symptoms that last for months of even years after the loss. Symptoms include physical changes, abnormal behaviour, the experience of an array of intrusive thoughts and intense emotions.

Physical symptoms might include fatigue, insomnia, changes in appetite, and other stress-related health issues that affect the person’s ability to function in daily life. Additionally, there may be an identity crisis or a loss of meaning in life. The person might feel like a part of themselves is missing and can’t imagine a future without the deceased. 

Behaviourally, there is often a strong desire to avoid reminders of the deceased to help the individual cope. The person may go out of their way to avoid places, activities, or people associated with the loved one. There is a struggle to accept the reality of the loss that leaves them with an ongoing sense of disbelief and/or denial. 

The person may experience ongoing and intrusive thoughts about the deceased including frequent and distressing memories, dreams, or flashbacks. The cycle of continual thoughts causes distress and a persistent state of imbalance. 

The person may experience intense emotions such as anger, guilt, or despair that commonly do not decrease over time. The influx of emotions often creates overwhelm and emotional paralysis—an inability to move forwards.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of traumatic grief is important for identifying when someone needs additional support. The persistent and intense emotions and behaviors that characterize traumatic grief can significantly impair an individual's ability to function and move forward. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step towards providing the necessary help and support.

How to Support Traumatic Grief

Supporting individuals experiencing traumatic grief requires a multifaceted approach. There are many strategies to help individuals cope and navigate the emotions and behaviors associated with traumatic grief, some of which include: trauma-focused therapies, stress management and self care routines, community support and planning ahead. These techniques can help individuals process their loss and develop healthy coping strategies that significantly alleviate the intense emotions and behaviors associated with traumatic grief. And when integrated into daily routines, foster a stronger sense of belonging and hope.

Strategies to Help Cope with Traumatic Grief Symptoms:

1. Trauma Focused Therapy 

Specialized grief counseling is a key component of trauma-based therapy that offers tailored support to individuals experiencing traumatic grief. This therapy focuses on addressing the unique and intense emotions associated with a sudden or distressing loss. Grief counselors provide a safe space for expression and healing, and empower individuals to gradually find acceptance and a sense of peace.

2. Practice Stress Management 

Learn how to manage stress better. Effectively managing stress is crucial when coping with traumatic grief. Implementing stress management techniques (ie. meditation) can help individuals navigate the intensity of overwhelming emotions. Regular practice can build resilience over time, enabling individuals to manage their grief more constructively. Additionally, exploring in alternative stress management techniques (ie. journaling, music etc.) can provide an emotional anchor and foster a sense of calm.

3. Practice Good Self-Care 

Self care isn’t just bubble baths. We often underestimate the value of simple things like getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and taking time to relax. These examples of self-care routines can help rejuvenate the body and mind from the demands of grief. Self-care is a fundamental aspect of coping with traumatic grief that extends far beyond occasional indulgences.

4. Reach Out to Your Community

Building and leaning on a supportive community is vital in the healing process. If you lack a support network, consider joining a grief support group or engaging with a faith-based community. These connections can provide emotional support, understanding, and a sense of belonging, helping to navigate the feelings that are associated with traumatic grief. 

5. Plan Ahead

Anticipating and preparing for significant dates, such as anniversaries or birthdays, can help manage the emotional impact of these triggers. Creating a plan for how to spend these days can provide a sense of control and reduce anxiety. Planning ahead allows for intentional reflection and honoring of the grief journey.

Looking for more?

Empowered Inc. is dedicated to supporting individuals and communities with tools, resources  and strategies that can help navigate grief, and foster personal and professional growth. Through curiosity, compassion, and continued learning individuals can navigate the challenging terrain of traumatic grief with resilience and strength. 

If you are interested in learning more, explore our Grief Support Specialist Training. 

→ Access Grief Support Specialist Training ←

The Grief Support Specialist Training is designed for individuals who possess a strong sense of empathy and compassion, and have a genuine desire to support others through difficult times. Our program is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of grief and loss.