Grief, Bereavement, and Mental Health After Stillbirth

Following stillbirth, profound grief is well-documented, and co-occurring mental health struggles are common. Distinguishing normal grief from mental health conditions is crucial yet difficult, especially when losses are traumatic. Strong social and emotional support promotes integration and adjustment, but stigma surrounding stillbirth often negatively impacts the degree of support families receive. Many bereaved parents prefer peer-based and animal-assisted supports over conventional clinical services, which may reflect gaps in clinician training in perinatal bereavement care. Accordingly, all professionals who interface with bereaved families should receive targeted education in evidence-informed communication, compassionate care, and community-based support.