CBT for Prolonged Grief Disorder

Educational content only. PGD often benefits from specialized therapy. See our Medical Disclaimer.

Overview

Prolonged grief disorder involves persistent yearning/longing, difficulty accepting the loss, and functional impairment well beyond expected cultural norms.

Why CBT helps

Approach reminders: gently revisit places/objects linked to the deceased.
Meaning‑making: work with beliefs about responsibility, identity, and future.
Routines/social reconnection: restore anchors and supportive contact.

Journaling prompts

Reminder I approached → emotion before/after → what I learned.
One memory I want to carry forward and how I will honor it.
Routine or social step I completed today.

Use flexible entries; see How to Journal.

When to seek care

Severe guilt, self‑harm thoughts, or persistent functional loss warrant specialized grief therapy and coordinated care.