Grief and trauma Flashcards
Schut, Stroebe and Frinkenhaur: the three links between trauma and bereavement
1) Trauma without bereavement: trauma from a traumatic event that does not cause death.
2) Bereavement without trauma: Not showing signs of trauma following a loved ones death
3) Traumatic bereavement: when the bereaved witnessed the loved ones death and experiences trauma as a result
When does trauma often occur with bereavement?
Trauma often occurs as the result of an unexpected bereavement.
How is traumatic grief similar to ‘normal grief’?
Traumatic grief is different to ‘normal’ grief, however it contains some of the same signs such as crying, depression, sadness, longing, insomnia and anger. It becomes traumatic when these feelings are prolonged.
What are some typical reactions and thoughts that may be experienced during traumatic grief?
Sudden bouts of bitterness and anger, prolonged nightmares and insomnia, personal accountability for the death, problems completing everyday tasks, a need to reconnect with the deceased.
What is the link between traumatic grief and phobias?
Individuals with traumatic grief may develop a phobia linked to the death, e.g. if the death was the result of a car accident, they may develop a phobia of driving or being in a car.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a medical condition whereby the individual suffers from disturbing reactions or thoughts following a traumatic event. PTSD usually develops within the first month of the traumatic event, however for some people it may be delayed.
How does PTSD lead to avoidance?
People with PTSD will generally avoid situations that are similar to the traumatic event. For example, if the death occurred in a car accident they may avoid driving or being in cars.
How is PTSD diagnosed in the UK and USA?
The diagnosis of PTSD involves the completion of questionnaires that contain PTSD and traumatic grief criteria. In the UK the criteria is created by the National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health. In the USA it is the DSM.
What should be considered when working with PTSD clients?
When working with PTSD clients you should consider:
Any past trauma that is not resolved
The stability of their personal life and their support system.
Their responsibilities, including work and any dependants, such as children or elderly.
Other problems that can cause distress such as mental illness or addiction
What kind of medical conditions can worsen the PTSD?
Clinical depression
Injuries (sometimes caused by the event)
Permanent illness such as diabetes or epilepsy
Drug or alcohol addiction
