Anticipatory grief

The grieving process often starts before you even experience the loss of a loved one. This is called anticipatory grief. It can occur days, months or even years before the loss of a loved one. It’s important to understand anticipatory grief and the feelings you may be experiencing. The information below will help you define anticipatory grief and offer you solutions on how to cope.

If you need additional support, please contact a member of your care team.

Understanding anticipatory grief

Anticipatory grief is not just about expecting a death, it’s about all the losses you experience along the way. Understanding what you are experiencing can help you manage your grief process.

How to cope when you’re anticipating a loss

These strategies may help you as you are trying to cope with an anticipated loss.

An anticipatory grief story

Often anticipatory grief involves a long decline in a loved one's condition. Read more about one person's experience as a caregiver with anticipatory grief.

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