Prolonged grief disorder in bereaved parents: Exploring impacts and treatment pathways

Abstract

Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) is characterized by intense and persistent grief that significantly impairs daily functioning. For bereaved parents, the loss of a child represents an unparalleled emotional challenge, placing them at heightened risk of developing PGD. This review traces the evolution of PGD from early conceptualization to current definitions in the International Classification of Diseases, 11^th revision, and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5^th Edition, Text Revision. Building on this historical foundation, the analysis examined the prevalence, risk factors, and diagnostic criteria of PGD in bereaved parents, with particular attention to sex differences, the nature of the loss, and the time elapsed since the child's death. Furthermore, this review examines the multidimensional consequences of PGD on parents, including its emotional, physiological, and functional effects. Evidence-based treatments for PGD, such as psychotherapeutic approaches and emerging interventions, are also discussed. By synthesizing existing research, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of PGD among bereaved parents, highlights the unique challenges they face, and offers practical insights and recommendations for clinicians working with this population.

Keywords: Child loss; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; Mental health; Parental bereavement; Prolonged grief disorder.

Figure 1

Challenges in diagnosing prolonged grief disorder. PGD: Prolonged grief disorder; PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder.

Figure 2

Recommendations for healthcare providers supporting bereaved parents.