Grief and Loss Treatment in Los Angeles County

Grief & Loss Treatment

Grief and Loss 

Loss is a normal and unavoidable part of being human, and grief is an emotion that is caused by loss. There are many different plausible causes for grief-related problems, some of which could include: divorce, miscarriage, romantic breakup, moving, losing a job, and/ or death of a loved one. Experiencing grief after a loss is healthy and natural. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), there is mention of a specific disorder, known as persistent complex bereavement disorder, which is described as an individual who experiences intense symptoms of debilitating grief that does not dissipate in the months following the loss, and lasts beyond twelve months. 

Signs and Symptoms 

Though each person is different, there are some common symptoms that can arise in an individual who has difficulty with grief management. Below are examples of some of the typical symptoms, as provided by the Mayo Clinic:

• Changes in one’s diet
• Social isolation
• Sleep disturbances
• Hyper vigilance 
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Challenges at school 
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed pastimes
• Anger
• Mood swings
• Agitation
• Irritability
• Suicidal ideation

Many of the above signs and symptoms can be typical reactions to experiencing a loss. If, however, the symptoms are prolonged and are inhibiting an individual’s ability to function in his or her everyday life, seeking guidance from a mental health professional may be advantageous. 

The Treatment Process

Every individual is unique and will process grief and loss distinctly and at their own pace. Although experiencing loss and grief are inevitable, when they occur their inevitability does not necessarily make navigating them any less difficult or less complicated. In order to be effective, the treatment process for grief and loss must consist of a customized treatment plan that is specifically tailored to an individual’s circumstance and nuanced emotional needs. Treatment plans could include a combination of different therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), expressive arts therapy, and/ or interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). Depending on the needs of the individual focusing on improving one’s daily habits (e.g. practicing mindfulness techniques, exercising regularly, developing healthy sleeping habits, eating nutritiously, etc.) could also be integrated into one’s treatment plan to further improve one’s overall health and wellbeing. It is important to note that every person is unique and will respond distinctly to various treatment options available.

Why Choose Annandale in Pasadena?

Annandale Behavioral Health is a private wellness center located in the beautiful hills of Pasadena, CA. Our center provides the ideal environment for guests to reconnect with nature while receiving premium and personalized treatment. At Annandale, we honor each person’s individuality and have a core belief that everyone is capable of achieving true wellness. We understand that in order to heal, every person in recovery deeply benefits from a customized and tailored treatment plan, which we carefully develop for each of our guests. Our multidisciplinary clinical team is made up of highly regarded psychiatrists, physicians, therapists, nursing, and support staff.

Annandale Behavioral Health offers a full continuum of care, including medically supervised detox, stabilization, residential treatment, and aftercare services. We are here to support you every step of the way to help you learn how to lead a healthy, authentic, and fulfilling life that both promotes and supports true wellness.

If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction, please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. Our admissions team is available to answer any general questions regarding substance abuse, addiction, mental health issues, treatment, and/or specific questions about our program here at Annandale Behavioral Health. We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we might best be able to help you or your loved one in the recovery process. Feel free to reach us by phone at 855-778-8668 or through our contact form. We look forward to supporting you on your journey.