American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is the condition called when grief lasts for longer than 1 year?

1. Adjustment disorder

2. Persistent complex bereavement disorder

3. Major depressive disorder

4. Prolonged grief disorder

The correct answer is: Persistent complex bereavement disorder

Persistent complex bereavement disorder is characterized by a significant and prolonged grief response that exceeds the typical timeframe for bereavement. In this condition, individuals experience intense yearning, emotional pain, or preoccupation with the deceased that persists for more than one year. This disorder is clinically important as it can lead to functional impairment and emotional distress that is distinct from the normal grief process. The diagnostic criteria emphasize symptoms that include difficulty accepting the death, persistent emotions of sadness or numbness, and the feeling of life being meaningless without the deceased. This framework highlights the impact of grief on daily living, making it a recognized mental health condition. Understanding persistent complex bereavement disorder is crucial for identifying those who may need therapeutic intervention to process their grief healthily.