The death of a loved one is heartbreaking. Though everyone experiences and reacts to loss in their own unique way, when feelings of grief persist or intensify over an extended period of time, they can have a profound effect on the individual’s physical and mental well-being. Below, the behavioral health professionals at Savoy Medical Center in Basile, Eunice, Ville Platte, and Mamou, LA, discuss the point at which mourning evolves into mental illness.

When Mourning Becomes a Mental Illness

The process of mourning has no set timeline: some people grieve for weeks, whereas others may mourn a loss for several months. The extent and length of grief will generally depend on the individual, their relationship to the deceased, the circumstances surrounding the death, and a variety of other factors. But when the sadness, crying, and sleepless nights fail to subside, it may indicate the presence of a serious behavioral health condition known as complicated grief.

What Is Complicated Grief?

Often characterized by chronic sleep disturbances, constant grief occupation, irritability, and withdrawal from friends, family, and social engagements, complicated grief is a condition found to increase the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and substance abuse. Though the symptoms often resemble depression, the two conditions are actually quite unique. With proper diagnosis, behavioral health treatments, and patience, many survivors have been able to begin picking up the pieces to resolve their grief and regain their former quality of life.

If you or a loved one require the aid of a seasoned behavioral health professional in Basile, Eunice, Ville Platte, or Mamou, LA, Savoy Medical Center is available to help. Offering a full range of medical services, including mental health rehabilitation, oncology, physical therapy, and more, the hospital provides personalized, compassionate, high-quality care and treatments with available outpatient and inpatient hospitalization programs. Learn more about their behavioral health services online or call (337) 468-5261 to schedule an appointment.