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What Is Distorted Grief?
Distorted grief occurs when someone experiences extremely intense emotions outside of what is widely considered “the norm.” Although there is certainly no “correct” way to grieve after someone has died, […]
Distorted grief occurs when someone experiences extremely intense emotions outside of what is widely considered “the norm.” Although there is certainly no “correct” way to grieve after someone has died, a person experiencing distorted grief typically feels strong emotions aside from sadness or loss, most often anger. This can manifest in self-destructive behavior and/or lashing out at loved ones, placing impossible expectations on others, and feeling disconnected or isolated from the world.
Someone who’s feeling distorted grief may also be in denial that their loved one died, or experience depression that’s not accompanied by typical feelings of sadness. This type of grief can be challenging because it often departs from societal expectations of how someone should grieve. Therapy and support groups can be helpful for those experiencing distorted grief, allowing them to process their emotions in a safe environment. Understanding that everyone’s journey through grief is unique can help people navigate their experiences without judgment.
Sources
“9 Types of Grief People May Experience, According to Experts”. VeryWell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/types-of-grief-people-may-experience-7504728
“Grief, Bereavement, and Coping With Loss (PDQ®)”. PDQ Cancer Information Summaries [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK66052/
“Local and National Support”. Heal Grief. https://healgrief.org/grief-support-resources/
