What is the definition of complicated grief?

Complicated grief is characterized by a prolonged period of mourning that does not seem to diminish over time and may be intense and debilitating. This type of grief can last for months or even years and is marked by ongoing feelings of deep sorrow, longing for the deceased, and difficulty moving forward with life. Individuals experiencing complicated grief may find it challenging to accept the reality of their loss and might exhibit symptoms similar to depression or anxiety, making it distinct from typical grieving processes.

In contrast, the other options describe different aspects of grief that do not adequately capture the essence of complicated grief. Grief that resolves quickly reflects a healthy grieving process, while grief with emotional outbursts can be a normal part of the grieving experience but does not indicate complication. Grief experienced only during anniversaries refers to a specific time-bound grief response rather than a pattern of prolonged distress. Thus, the option that identifies prolonged, unresolved grief directly aligns with the established understanding of complicated grief.