Should Grief be a Disorder?

When I read that grief has been classified as Prolonged Grief Disorder, I had mixed feelings. I'm happy to see that more people can have access to treatment, but why does everything need a label? Grief will forever be a part of my life, it's not a linear timeline, and what is "normal" grief anyway? In this episode, I'll ponder if grief should be a disorder in the first place, or if doctors have it all wrong.   Key Takeaways:  [3:28] Being criticized for getting over grief "slowly" and being told to stop being sad [5:25] Holding myself to a standard that's too high and what triggers me [7:07] A parallel existence, the grief besides the joy  [8:21] You don't move on from being a parent [11:07] Grief being classified as Prolonged Grief Disorder and how it's insulting [15:23] Grief can't be classified in a neat little timeline [18:07] How a child is categorized as special needs in different states  [20:02] Why do we have to label everything? [22:24] How grief being classified as a disorder means people can get help they need [24:53] There is no "normal" grief and it's a lifelong problem  [28:17] Grief is a long, long process and where I'm at in the process [31:45] Being told to move on and peoples expectations  [33:21] It took me 2 and a half years for Molly's death to sink in [35:36] Doctor's thoughts on how to treat grief as a disorder  [37:39] What's next for me and should grief be labeled as a disorder?   Resources from this episode: The Body Keeps the Score The Body Keeps the Score Workbook Mitchell's Journey Prolonged Grief Disorder by the NYT Prolonged Grief Disorder by the Washington Post   Connect with Barb: Website Facebook  Instagram YouTube