ALS Anticipatory Grief is a phenomenon that exposes family members to emotional turmoil even before the actual death of their loved one diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a terminal illness that affects muscle control leading to difficulty in movement, speech, breathing and eventually causing death. The diagnosis of this fatal disease propels families into a grief journey that starts long before their loved one passes on. This type of grief is known as anticipatory grief.
##Understanding ALS Anticipatory Grief
Anticipatory grief is a form of grief that occurs when a loved one is still alive but is terminally ill. It’s the grieving that happens before death and is common among individuals and families dealing with a terminal illness like ALS. Understandably, everyone grieves differently, and the grief process can display itself differently among different family members.
According to Therese A. Rando, Ph.D., “anticipatory grief is the beginning of the end,” and it has unique attributes distinct from those of conventional grief after death. Indeed, Dr. Rando, a renowned specialist in bereavement, identifies versatility, anxiety, depression, heightened concern for the patient, rehearsal of the death, and attempts to adjust to the consequences of the death all as components of ALS anticipatory grief (Source: “Anticipatory Grief: The term is a misnomer but the phenomenon exists”).
##The Impact of ALS Anticipatory Grief on Family Mourning
The grief journey that families embark upon following an ALS diagnosis changes the family dynamics significantly. The period of anticipatory grief brings about deep sadness, anxiety, anger, and sometimes denial. One of the side effects of anticipatory grief is family mourning.
Family mourning can manifest itself in many ways. Family members will often isolate themselves, attempt to prepare for life without their loved one, and may even harbor feelings of resentment towards the dying person, other family members, or the situation in general. Family mourning can become a challenge for families to navigate, particularly when it’s caused by anticipatory grief related to an ALS diagnosis.
##Navigating Family Mourning: A Guide
Navigating family mourning brought on by ALS anticipatory grief is a delicate process that requires emotional support and understanding. Below are steps to guide families through this trying period:
1. Open communication: Talk about the situation with all family members. Expressing feelings and emotions is a key element to healing.
2. Seek professional help: Engage the services of a professional therapist or counselor. Their expertise offers valuable insights into the process of grieving.
3. Join a support group: Support groups provide an outlet to learn from others’ experiences within a nonjudgmental environment.
4. Self-Care: Remember to take care of your physical and mental health. Exercising, eating healthily, and getting adequate sleep is a necessity during this period.
5. Plan ahead: Planning ahead can alleviate anxiety about the unpredictable nature of ALS.
(References:
– “Anticipatory Grief: The term is a misnomer but the phenomenon exists”
– “Stages of Anticipatory Grief”
– “Anticipatory Grief and Mourning”
– “Understanding Anticipatory Grief”)
Managing ALS anticipatory grief and navigating family mourning may seem daunting. Remember, it’s a journey of emotional healing and adjustment. We encourage you to reach out if you or your family is battling with anticipatory grief following an ALS diagnosis. Feel free to explore more related content on our site. For immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at 702-385-6000. You’re not on this journey alone.
