Prolonged grief disorder: Diagnostic, assessment, and treatment considerations.

Abstract

Normative bereavement reactions are contrasted with prolonged grief disorder (PGD). Diagnostic criteria for PGD are reviewed. PGD is distinguished from other problems occurring after loss, namely depression and PTSD. Assessment approaches are described. Recent clinical trials are reviewed, and recommendations for the psychotherapeutic treatment of PGD are developed. Consideration of medication referral is also recommended, especially in the case of co-occurring depression.