Psychotherapy | 8 min read | 2024-08-20 | 95 Views
The Benefits of Mental Health Support Following the Death of a Loved One
Highlights how professional help can aid in coping with grief and emotional challenges after losing someone close.
The death of a loved one is one of life's most challenging experiences, often triggering a cascade of emotional responses. Grief, while a natural reaction, can evolve into more severe mental health issues if not properly addressed. A study found that around 10% to 20% of people develop chronic complaints after the natural death of a significant other such as depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder and/or disturbed grief reactions (Lenferink et al., 2018). Mental health support provides many benefits that help in aiding individuals through the grieving process through various forms of therapy, coping mechanisms and social connection.
Alleviating Complicated Grief
Complicated grief is a prolonged and intense form of grief that can hinder an individual's ability to function. Individuals experiencing complicated grief often find themselves trapped in a relentless cycle of intense yearning and longing, which becomes the central focus of their lives. This is typically accompanied by deep sadness, frustration, and anxiety. These individuals may view their grief as overwhelming, shameful, and abnormal, feeling as though their lives are over and that the excruciating pain they endure will never subside (Zisook & Shear, 2009). Studies have shown that complicated grief therapy helps to not only improve individuals' complicated grief conditions but also enhance their emotional processing abilities (Pinheiro et al., 2021). This therapy focuses on helping individuals accept the reality of the loss, develop a new relationship with the deceased, and rebuild their lives. Such specialized interventions can prevent grief from becoming a chronic, debilitating condition.
Reducing Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
Grief often coexists with depression and anxiety. A study found that bereaved individuals who received cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) specifically for grief experienced a decrease in depressive and anxiety symptoms compared to those who did not receive such support (Breen et al., 2023). CBT helps individuals reframe negative thoughts and develop coping strategies, providing a structured approach to manage their emotional responses during bereavement. This is extremely helpful due to the emotional dysregulation that occurs during the grieving process and can help individuals restructure their thoughts and emotions to lead them down the path of healing.
Enhancing Coping Mechanisms
Pain is an inherent part of life. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a behavioral approach that aims to alter how individuals relate to and experience pain. ACT transforms one's interaction with internal experiences such as thoughts, emotions, sensations, and memories, helping them be seen as a normal part of the human condition and not negatively. Through mindfulness and acceptance, along with commitment and behavior modification, ACT helps individuals foster a relationship with themselves and others that is open, conscious, and engaged, thus initiating the healing process (APA PsycNet, 2023). Cognitive behavioral therapy is also helpful in shifting individuals' perspectives on the death of their loved one and, in turn, the level of responsibility they endorse in the death, leading to healthier coping (Morris et al., 2020). Developing effective coping mechanisms is crucial in navigating the complexities of grief and can be achieved by seeking professional mental health support through various forms of therapy following the death of a loved one.
Promoting Physical Health
Grief can cause many psychological and physiological problems and greatly affect an individual's well-being. The death of a loved one causes many psychological issues such as impaired sleep, loneliness, and disruption to daily routines, which have all been individually associated with affecting an individual's health. For instance, poor sleep quality has been associated with dysregulation of cortisol awakening responses. Additionally, loneliness has been correlated with increased cardiovascular activation, increased risk of mortality and morbidity, greater use of healthcare institutions, and cortisol dysregulation (Hopf et al., 2020). Seeking mental health support after a loss is crucial as it can manifest into issues that affect a person's physiological health. A study found that those who attended a bereavement support group experienced significantly lower cortisol levels six months after the support group compared to a control group that attended a standard support group (Hopf et al., 2020). This suggests that the bereavement support group had a positive effect on the individuals' mental health, thereby improving their physical health. It is important to attend specialized support groups that best fit the individual's needs to gain the most benefit.
Fostering Social Connections
Isolation is a common response to grief, yet social support is a crucial element of healing. A study on grieving individuals' satisfaction with social support found that 50% of people found good social support from support groups, colleagues, family, therapists, animals, and friends (Cacciatore et al., 2021). These settings provide a sense of community and understanding, helping individuals feel less alone in their grief. Sharing experiences with others undergoing similar challenges can provide comfort, reduce feelings of isolation, and encourage the expression of grief in a supportive environment. The study also showed a high satisfaction rate with the support individuals received from animals (Cacciatore et al., 2021). It is important to note that social connectedness is not only about the amount of contact individuals have with their support systems but also the quality of the support they provide. This includes holding space for the griever, listening, providing a judgment-free and safe space, sharing memories, and not imposing a time limit on grief (Cacciatore et al., 2021). It is essential to provide the best support possible for grieving individuals, as they are going through an extremely difficult time in their lives, by offering the quantity and quality of support that best suits their needs.
Conclusion
The death of a loved one is an inevitable part of life, but it does not have to lead to enduring emotional turmoil. There has been plenty of research conducted in the past few years that highlights the profound benefits of mental health support during bereavement. From reducing complicated grief and alleviating depression and anxiety to promoting physical health and fostering social connections, mental health interventions play a crucial role in navigating the difficult journey of grief. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step towards healing and rebuilding a meaningful life after loss.
By embracing the available mental health resources, individuals can find the strength and resilience needed to honor their loved ones' memories while continuing to live fulfilling lives.
References
American Psychological Association. (2023). Apa PsycNet. American Psychological Association. https://psycnet.apa.org/buy/2020-56133-010
Breen, L. J., Greene, D., Rees, C. S., Black, A., Cawthorne, M., & Egan, S. J. (2023). A co-designed systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy of grief interventions for anxiety and depression in young people. Journal of Affective Disorders, 335, 289–297. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2023.05.032
Cacciatore, J., Thieleman, K., Fretts, R., & Jackson, L. B. (2021). What is good grief support? exploring the actors and actions in social support after traumatic grief. PLOS ONE, 16(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0252324
Hopf, D., Eckstein, M., Aguilar‐Raab, C., Warth, M., & Ditzen, B. (2020). Neuroendocrine mechanisms of grief and bereavement: A systematic review and implications for future interventions. Journal of Neuroendocrinology, 32(8). https://doi.org/10.1111/jne.12887
Lenferink, L. I., Nickerson, A., Keijser, J., Smid, G. E., & Boelen, P. A. (2018). Trajectories of grief, depression, and posttraumatic stress in disaster‐bereaved people. Depression and Anxiety, 37(1), 35–44. https://doi.org/10.1002/da.22850
Morris, S. E., Moment, A., & Thomas, J. deLima. (2020). Caring for bereaved family members during the COVID-19 pandemic: Before and after the death of a patient. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 60(2). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.05.002
Pinheiro, P., Gonçalves, M. M., Nogueira, D., Pereira, R., Basto, I., Alves, D., & Salgado, J. (2021). Emotional processing during the therapy for complicated grief. Psychotherapy Research, 32(5), 678–693. https://doi.org/10.1080/10503307.2021.1985183
ZISOOK, S., & SHEAR, K. (2009). Grief and bereavement: What psychiatrists need to know. World Psychiatry, 8(2), 67–74. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2051-5545.2009.tb00217.x
Other articles
The Benefits of Mental Health Support Following the Death of a Loved One
Highlights how professional help can aid in coping with grief and emotional challenges after losing someone close.
Retail therapy: Good or bad for our mental health?
Shopping has become an integral part of modern life, serving both practical and emotional purposes. While it can provide short-term relief and a sense of control, often referred to as "retail therapy," its effects on mental health are complex. On one hand, shopping can offer emotional benefits, like stress relief and social interaction. On the other hand, when used as a primary coping mechanism, it can lead to impulsivity, compulsive behavior, and financial strain. Ultimately, the impact of shopping on mental health depends on the individual’s mindset and the reasons behind their purchases.
Finding the Balance: Navigating Work and Social Life
In today's fast-paced world, many struggle to balance work and personal life, which is crucial for both productivity and mental well-being. Overworking can lead to burnout, isolation, stress, and physical health issues, while neglecting work for socializing may cause anxiety about performance. Finding harmony between the two is key to overall happiness. Strategies for achieving balance include setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, scheduling social activities, practicing mindfulness, and learning to say no. This balance is essential for maintaining emotional resilience, mental health, and overall life satisfaction.
Stress management at the workplace: What is really the best approach to take?
Work-related stress is a significant challenge in today’s workforce, impacting both employees' mental health and organizational productivity. Addressing this issue is essential to improving quality of life for employees. Recent initiatives focus on computer-based stress management interventions, though studies show that in-person interventions may be more effective despite the cost-effectiveness of web-based solutions. Mobile interventions, particularly those based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), have shown long-lasting benefits, improving emotional exhaustion and work detachment. While some studies found no effect on absenteeism, the overall data supports the use of technology to manage workplace stress. Employers should leverage these cost-effective and accessible tools to enhance employee well-being.
Mental health in the corporate workplace
Poor mental health in the workplace is an increasing concern, with over 76% of U.S. employees reporting emotional distress and over half saying it impacts their ability to work. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the mental health gap, leading to higher job turnover due to unsupportive company cultures. While stigma around mental health is decreasing, underrepresented groups, including the LGBTQ+ and Black and Latino communities, are disproportionately affected. Mental health issues, such as unresolved depression, result in a significant decline in productivity, but employees who receive therapy or skill-building interventions often see long-term improvements. To address this, companies must foster a supportive environment, provide easy access to mental health care, and train leaders to promote a positive work culture. Prioritizing mental health is not only ethical but also a strategic move for enhancing productivity and well-being.
The mental health crisis: Refugees
By 2019, Canada became one of the top 26 countries for refugee resettlement. In 2022, the country hosted 140,621 refugees, an 8.07% increase from previous years. While Canada offers new opportunities, refugees face significant mental health challenges, a topic not widely explored in research. Studies show that experiences of violence and displacement lead to severe psychological distress, including depression and suicidal thoughts. For example, 78% of refugees in Malawi’s Dzaleka Refugee Camp reported severe depression. As the global refugee crisis grows, Canada must adopt a holistic mental health approach, focusing on wellness, resilience, and long-term support for refugees. This requires shifting from treating only war-related trauma to addressing the full range of refugees' mental health needs.
The college mental health crisis
College is often idealized as the best time in a young adult's life, filled with socializing, lighthearted challenges, and academic success. However, the reality is quite different. College has become a highly demanding and stressful environment, contributing to a growing mental health crisis. A majority of students now meet the criteria for at least one mental health condition, with cases of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts doubling since 2013. The combination of major life transitions, academic pressure, work responsibilities, and an overwhelmed mental health support system has exacerbated this issue. To address this crisis, many institutions are turning to mindfulness programs, which equip students with the skills to cope with stress and develop resilience. Schools like NYU, USC, and Penn State are leading efforts to integrate mindfulness into their mental health services, showing positive outcomes. While these programs are a step forward, colleges need to invest more in mental health resources to help students thrive both in and out of the classroom. The goal should be to provide comprehensive support that prepares students for the challenges of life, not just college.
Effective Stress Management for Employees: Cultivating a Healthier Workplace
Effective stress management in the workplace is crucial for both employee well-being and organizational success. Chronic stress, often caused by heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and lack of control, can lead to burnout, health issues, and decreased productivity. Employers can mitigate these effects by promoting work-life balance through flexible schedules, offering resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), fostering open communication about mental health, and encouraging physical activity. Additionally, cultivating a supportive and positive workplace culture where employees feel valued can greatly reduce stress and improve overall job satisfaction. By addressing stress proactively, organizations can enhance both employee morale and performance.
Expanding Access and Flexibility: The Power of Technology in Counseling
The integration of technology into counseling has revolutionized mental health services by increasing accessibility, flexibility, and affordability. Digital tools like teletherapy and AI have proven to be effective, often yielding results comparable or superior to traditional face-to-face methods. While practitioners have been slower to adapt than clients, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this transition, making mental health care more accessible by overcoming barriers like geographic isolation and scheduling conflicts. As technology continues to evolve, it will further expand access to counseling services, empowering more people to engage with their mental health.
A deep dive into the LGTBQ+ community: What about their mental health?
The mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals are deeply impacted by societal stigma, discrimination, and unique stressors tied to their identity. These factors, such as family estrangement and societal rejection, contribute to heightened rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, especially among LGBTQ+ youth. The Minority Stress Model helps explain how chronic stress from being part of a marginalized group exacerbates these issues. Despite these challenges, many LGBTQ+ individuals demonstrate resilience, and promoting affirming environments and inclusive policies can improve their mental well-being.