Which symptoms are commonly associated with anticipatory grief?

• A. Hunger, sleepiness.
• B. Sadness, worry, fear, anxiety, anger, and helplessness.
• C. Joy, excitement, relief, confidence.
• D. Boredom, indifference.

Answer: (B)

Anticipatory grief centers on the emotional work people do when facing an impending loss. The most typical and telling cluster of feelings during this time includes sadness about what’s coming, worry and fear about the future, anxiety about outcomes, anger at the situation or circumstances, and a sense of helplessness from feeling out of control. This mix reflects both sorrow for the upcoming separation and the stress of navigating uncertainty, conversations, and decisions that often accompany a looming loss. The other options don’t fit as well because basic physical states like hunger or sleepiness aren’t specific to grieving, and while some people may feel brief moments of joy or relief or even indifference at times, these do not capture the broad, emotionally complex experience that anticipatory grief commonly involves.