---
title: What Is Prolonged Grief Disorder?
date: 2024-12-02T14:00:52Z
modified: 2024-11-25T15:13:01Z
permalink: "https://newdirectionspgh.com/counseling-blog/what-is-prolonged-grief-disorder/"
type: post
status: publish
excerpt: ""
wpid: 3749
categories:
  - Grief Counseling
  - Mental Health
  - Mental Health Therapy
tags:
  - Grief Counseling
  - Mental Health
  - Mental Health Therapy
  - grief awareness week
  - grief counseling
  - prolonged grief disorder
featured_image: "https://newdirectionspgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/What-is-Prolonged-Grief-Disorder.png"
featured_image_alt: woman with prolonged grief disorde sits on a couch and holds her hand to her forehead
timestamp: 2024-11-25T15:13:01Z
---

Grieving is a natural and personal process, but for some, it can become so prolonged that it disrupts daily life, leading to a condition known as prolonged grief disorder (PGD). This type of grief extends far beyond mourning, impacting one’s ability to function and find comfort.

Grief Awareness Week, observed from December 2nd to the 8th, plays a crucial role in raising awareness about prolonged grief disorder and offering support options like [grief counseling](/counseling-therapy/grief-counseling/) to help people navigate their grief.

At New Directions Mental Health, we provide compassionate, personalized care, delivering expert grief counseling services tailored to each client’s unique needs. If you or a loved one is experiencing grief, we can help—call \[Direct\] to help you find healing.

## What Is Prolonged Grief Disorder?

Prolonged grief disorder is a mental health condition in which a person experiences intense, persistent grief that lasts for more than a year. This condition differs from typical grieving, as symptoms don’t gradually lessen and may even worsen over time. For those with PGD, grief counseling can be invaluable in helping them understand and process their emotions, providing support as they move through their grief journey.

## Signs of Prolonged Grief Disorder

PGD involves unique and persistent symptoms. If these signs continue for an extended period, it may be time to consider grief counseling:

- Intense, prolonged yearning or longing for the deceased
- Difficulty accepting the loss, accompanied by disbelief or shock
- Emotional numbness, lack of engagement, or a feeling of isolation
- Persistent sadness, loneliness, or bitterness
- Struggling to find meaning or purpose after the loss

By increasing awareness of these symptoms, we can help people recognize when prolonged grief may be affecting them and encourage them to seek support.

## Why Is Grief Counseling Important?

Grief counseling offers a safe, non-judgmental space to process grief, and it’s especially beneficial for those struggling with prolonged grief disorder. Through counseling, clients can gain tools to understand and work through their grief at their own pace.

This approach can also provide coping strategies for managing daily life, facilitating the healing process in a way that honors their unique experience. During Grief Awareness Week and throughout the year, our compassionate professionals are here to help those struggling with PGD find healing and hope.

## How New Directions Mental Health Supports People with Prolonged Grief Disorder

At New Directions Mental Health, we offer personalized grief counseling services to guide clients through the complexities of prolonged grief. Our team utilizes evidence-based therapies to address PGD by helping clients find healthy ways to cope and re-engage with life. We have experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds, offering a safe and supportive environment to process their grief.

We understand that each person’s journey through grief is unique, and we are committed to offering compassionate support at every stage. Managing and living with prolonged grief is achievable, and we are dedicated to guiding individuals toward healing.

As we observe Grief Awareness Week, we encourage everyone to learn about prolonged grief disorder and available support options. If you or a loved one is struggling with PGD, please don’t hesitate to reach out to New Directions Mental Health—we are here for you.

## Reach Out to New Directions Mental Health and Get Help with Healing

Grief Awareness Week highlights the importance of recognizing and seeking support for PGD. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of prolonged grief, consider reaching out to New Directions Mental Health. Our compassionate team is ready to guide you through your grief journey. Call us today at \[Direct\] to learn more or schedule an appointment.

For new clients, please [click here](/schedule-appointment/) to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please [click here](/individual-locations/) and find your office location to contact your office directly.