Anticipatory Grief
Grief reactions that one can experience before an actual death occurs . This type of grief can present in both the individual dying and the survivor ( s ). Anticipatory grief can present in a variety of ways including but not limited to :
› Increased anxiety - concern of impending separation › Increased mortality awareness
› Fear of living without your loved one / your loved one living without you
› Change in family structure › Relationship changes › Withdraw from loved one prior to death › Become increasingly involved prior to death › Fear of losing control or independence › “ Unfinished business ” - financially , emotionally › Change in social life / friendships
Anticipatory grief allows us the opportunity to become aware of the impending changes of life without a loved one . In anticipatory grief , we have the opportunity to open communication between the individual dying and surviving members to share thoughts , feelings , stories , hopes , and fears . Allowing this communication can often provide comfort , support , and healing to each person ( s ).
17