Anticipatory Grief

Definition

Response to loss before it actually occurs.

Characteristics

• Sorrow
• Guilt
• Anger
• Choked Feelings
• Denial of potential loss
• Expression of distress at potential loss
• Alterations in activity level
• Sleep patterns
• Changes in eating habits
• Altered Libido
• Potential loss of significant object
• Altered communication patterns
• Crying
• Hyperventilation
• Shock and disbelief

Treatment

These symptoms may last over a year, but with care can be sooner, depending on the person and the importance of the person who may be dying.

Offered by Debra.