What does survivor guilt refer to?

Survivor guilt refers specifically to the feelings of guilt that individuals may experience after surviving a traumatic event, particularly when others have died or suffered significantly. This phenomenon is often encountered in situations such as the death of a loved one, where the survivor questions why they survived while others did not.

This emotional response can stem from feelings of responsibility or regret, leading to an internal struggle as the individual grapples with their survival in the aftermath of loss. Understanding this concept is crucial in providing appropriate support and intervention for those dealing with such feelings, allowing for better grief processing and recovery.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of the grieving process. Remembering a loved one with joy highlights positive memories, while the process of grief recovery emphasizes healing from loss. The support of a grieving friend addresses the importance of companionship during mourning. However, none of these options encapsulate the specific experience of guilt felt by individuals who are left behind after a death.