Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) was added to the DSM-5-TR two years ago, sparking debate over pathologizing grief and setting specific timelines. PGD is characterized by intense and disabling yearning for a deceased person lasting over a year, requiring evaluation to prevent distress, poor health, and suicide. PGD diagnosis involves specific symptoms persisting for a month, with screening tools available. Treatment options include grief-focused CBT, psychotherapy, and supportive groups, with evidence supporting their efficacy. The ongoing debate revolves around normalizing grief versus recognizing severe cases; some argue for validation of grief experiences, while others advocate for standardized criteria to evaluate and treat PGD effectively.
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