Types of Grief in Addiction
There are several types of grief experienced by those impacted by addiction. These include:
Anticipatory Grief
Anticipatory grief is the grief experienced when a loved one is still alive but is expected to pass away. In addiction, anticipatory grief can be experienced by family members or loved ones who are watching a loved one struggle with addiction.
Complicated Grief
Complicated grief is grief that is prolonged or complicated by factors such as trauma or a difficult relationship with the person who has passed away. In addiction, complicated grief can be experienced by individuals who have lost a loved one to an overdose or other addiction-related cause.
Disenfranchised Grief
Disenfranchised grief is grief that is not recognized or supported by society. In addiction, disenfranchised grief can be experienced by individuals who have lost a loved one to addiction, as addiction is still stigmatized in many communities.