When is a bereavement abnormal?

When is a bereavement abnormal?
Sometimes, bereavement can become abnormal because it can last much too long or affect the
person’s life in a way that is damaging to her health. The following are some features that may
indicate an abnormal bereavement:
• if the reaction lasts for more than six months;
• if the bereaved person becomes very depressed and suicidal;
• if the person withdraws from social interaction with others;
• if the person avoids people and things linked to the lost relative or friend.
Abnormal bereavement is more likely to happen in the following situations:
• if the person has suffered multiple losses;
• if he lacks adequate social support;
• if he has lost a child, especially an only child;
• if an elderly person becomes bereaved due to the death of his spouse;

• if the death is sudden, for example in a road accident or suicide;
• if the person denies (or ignores) the loss for a long time.