Treatment for Grief

In general, if you have suffered a loss it is recommended that you turn to an existing social support network (friends, family, clergy) to prevent isolation. You may also benefit from developing new sources of support, including survivor peer support groups or military networking organizations. Keep in mind that grief is a normal reaction to loss. Pain and sadness are normal reactions to loss, and moving through a difficult time does not mean professional help is necessary. Most bereaved individuals are not likely to require or benefit from medical help.¹

Behavioral Interventions and Behavior Therapy

A small subset of people who suffer from a chronic or complicated pattern of grief may benefit from treatment. If you are experiencing a prolonged period of grief, and are concerned, talk to a provider about your concerns. Additionally, if you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or substance abuse, talk to your doctor and refer the related behavioral health categories.

From the Military Spouse Career Center: Find a Counselor

References

¹ Mancini, A. D., & Bonanno, G. A. (in press). In J. E. Fisher & W. O'Donohue (Eds). Practitioner's guide to evidence-based psychotherapy. New York: Kluwer Academic

TRICARE policy for reimbursement requires that services must be medically necessary for a diagnosed psychological disorder. The disorder must be one referenced in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) and must be of a severity not only to cause the patient distress but also to interfere with the patient’s usual activities.