Anticipatory grief

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Anticipatory Grief

Anticipatory grief (pronunciation: an-tis-i-pa-tory grief) is a type of grief that occurs before an impending loss. It is common among individuals who are facing the eventual death of a loved one or their own terminal illness.

Etymology

The term "anticipatory grief" is derived from the Latin word "anticipare", which means "to take before", and the Old English word "grief", which means "heavy heart".

Definition

Anticipatory grief is the process of grieving that occurs before an actual loss or death. It is a complex mixture of emotions and thoughts that arise when an individual or their loved ones are nearing the end of life. This type of grief is not limited to the anticipation of death but can also be experienced in anticipation of any significant loss.

Symptoms

Symptoms of anticipatory grief may include sadness, anxiety, fear, irritability, restlessness, and feelings of helplessness. These symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and can change over time as the anticipated loss approaches.

Related Terms

  • Grief: A multifaceted response to loss, particularly to the loss of someone or something that has died.
  • Bereavement: The state of sorrow over the death or departure of a loved one.
  • Mourning: The process of grieving the death of a loved one.
  • Terminal Illness: An illness that cannot be cured or adequately treated and that is reasonably expected to result in the death of the patient.

See Also

  • Coping (psychology): Dealing with changes and challenges in life.
  • Palliative Care: Specialized medical care for people with serious illnesses, focusing on providing relief from symptoms, pain, and stress.

References

  • Hospice: A type of care and philosophy of care that focuses on the palliation of a chronically ill, terminally ill, or seriously ill patient's pain and symptoms.

External links

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