Document Type : Original Article
Researcher
Student
Ministerial Ethics Committee
Grief and loss are among the most complex human experiences, profoundly affecting an individual's emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects. According to available statistics, around 10 to 20 percent of those who lose a loved one experience prolonged grief or complicated grief disorder. Prolonged grief is defined as a state of emotional, cognitive, and physical reactions that abnormally disrupt a person's daily life. This condition can lead to a reduced quality of life, health problems, and psychological disorders. Therefore, designing and implementing effective therapeutic programs for individuals struggling with prolonged grief is essential.
The Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory explores the internal structures of the mind and the interactions between its various "parts." This theory divides the human mind into several "parts," each playing a specific role in a person's behavior, feelings, and thoughts. During the grieving process, some of these parts may become defensive, disrupting the emotional processing. Recent studies show that therapeutic approaches based on IFS can help individuals better cope with their grief and resolve internal conflicts. This approach creates a safe space for dialogue with the injured inner parts, fostering self-compassion and self-awareness, ultimately leading to psychological healing and personal growth.