What is the term for the act or event of separation or loss that leads to grief?

The term that specifically refers to the act or event of separation or loss, which consequently leads to grief, is bereavement. Bereavement encompasses the period following a loss, particularly the death of a loved one, and the emotional reactions that occur as a result. It is characterized by feelings of sorrow, mourning, and profound sadness that accompany the experience of losing someone significant.

Other terms address aspects of emotional experiences but do not capture the specific context of loss leading to grief. For instance, depression refers to a broader mental health condition that can arise in response to various life circumstances, not solely related to loss. Isolation describes a state of being separated or cut off from social interactions, which may occur independently of grief. Loneliness, although related to emotional distress due to lack of companionship or connection, does not directly imply a state resulting from loss. Thus, bereavement is the most fitting term when discussing the specific context of loss and the grief that accompanies it.