Bereavement constitutes a shared environmental exposure that may result in distinct psychopathological outcomes, including prolonged grief disorder (PGD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major depressive disorder (MDD). The objective of this research was to construct a transdiagnostic conceptual model for interpreting bereavement-related pathologies that integrates core psychopathological data. A structured conceptual synthesis of the literature was conducted, focusing on diagnostic, epidemiological, pathophysiological, clinical, and therapeutic findings related to PGD and associated disorders. Shared and disorder- specific mechanisms were identified and mapped across diagnostic categories in order to construct an integrative framework. The proposed model suggests that bereavement-related psychopathology can be conceptualized as a spectrum of partially overlapping syndromes organized around three principal domains: attachment dysregulation and separation distress (PGD), trauma- and threat- processing abnormalities (PTSD, acute stress disorder, adjustment disorder), and depressive-cognitive vulnerability (MDD). This framework provides a clinically relevant perspective on the relationship between grief-, trauma-, and depression-related disorders following loss. More research is needed to empirically validate this model, but at a theoretical level, it can serve as an orienting aid for mapping bereavement-related diagnoses and treatments.
This narrative review examines psychotherapeutic interventions for combat soldiers who deal with post-traumatic distress and face a complex therapeutic setting where the relationships between clients and therapy providers are often conflictual. Despite available emotional aid, gaps between traumatized soldiers’ emotional needs and institutional solutions are inevitable and are challenging for clients and therapists alike. These issues are discussed through Israeli soldiers’ experiences, a population at high risk for trauma-related distress, due to this country’s ongoing security threats. Following a narrative literature review, four key themes emerged: mutual difficulties in admitting mental injury, intergenerational trauma, preserving the soldier identity upon discharge, and choosing among therapeutic opportunities. The study highlights the need and rationale for diverse biopsychosocial interventions for veterans and proposes considerations for enhancing treatment success. Results emphasize the importance of tailored approaches that address both individual and systemic factors affecting veterans’ mental health. Guidance for psychosocial interventions is provided, considering the multifaceted nature of combat-related trauma.
