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Vivid Dreams of the Deceased — SCE Palliative Medicine MCQ

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HardBereavementVivid Dreams of the DeceasedSCE Palliative Medicine

A bereaved patient has vivid dreams of the deceased that are comforting, recognises them as dreams and remains functional. What is the best interpretation?

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Correct answer: D — A common continuing-bond experience, not pathological by itself

Explanation lettering: C = shown as B · B = shown as C

D is correct. Dreams or a sensed presence can occur in normal bereavement and may support a continuing bond; preserved reality testing and function argue against psychopathology. A and C pathologise content alone, B ignores comforting experiences, and E imposes an unsupported deadline. Distress, impairment or loss of reality testing would prompt broader assessment.

Reference: NHS: grief after bereavement or loss: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/feelings-and-symptoms/grief-bereavement-loss/