Words Matter

Bereavement, grief, mourning, depression and complicated grief are often used interchangeably in our society.  However, they actually have distinct meanings.  Below you will find a brief definition of each term.

Bereavement refers to the state of having suffered a loss and experiencing the many emotions and changes associated with this loss.  Bereavement differs greatly from person to person.

Grief is the natural process of reacting to loss.  It is the normal psychological, behavioral, social, and physical response which helps the mourner to recognize the loss and prepare for the experience of mourning.  Grief reactions may be felt as a response to physical losses (i.e. your loved one) or in response to the symbolic or social losses (i.e. the loss of social acquaintances or physical touch).

Mourning is a term that describes the conscious, unconscious, and cultural reactions to loss.  By definition, mourning involves more than grief and is influenced by cultural customs, rituals, and society’s rules for coping with loss.

Depression is a term that refers to a lowered state of energy and/or a negative feeling that is commonly experienced as a reaction to loss.  Feeling "depressed" should not be confused with the medical condition known as Major Depressive Disorder or Clinical Depression.  Major Depressive Disorder is only diagnosable by a licensed mental health professional or a medical physician and requires immediate medical attention.  Depressive feelings associated with grief are part of the normal reaction to loss.  Important note:  If you entertain suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately or call 911.  This is a medical emergency and is not a normal response to grief. 

Complicated Grief is a term to describe a set of maladaptive grief symptoms which differ from those of normal grief or other bereavement reactions. During the first few months after a loss, many signs and symptoms of normal grief are the same as those of complicated grief.  However, while normal grief symptoms gradually start to fade, those of complicated grief get worse or linger.