Grief

Alternative Names

Treatment

Family and friends can offer emotional support during the grieving process. Sometimes outside factors can affect the normal grieving process, and people might need help from clergy, social workers, mental health specialists, or self-help groups.

The acute phase of grief can usually last up to 2 months, but some milder symptoms may last for a year or longer. Psychological counseling may help a person who is unable to face the loss (absent grief reaction), or who has depression associated with grieving.

Support Groups

You can help the stress of grieving by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems.

See also:

• Loss of a child - support group
• Loss of a spouse - support group

Outlook (Prognosis)

It may take a year or longer to overcome strong feelings of grief, and to accept the loss.

Possible Complications

Grief and loss can affect your overall health. It can lead to depression or excessive alcohol or drug use. Major depression is also a problem with grief. Grief that lasts for more than two months and is severe enough to interfere with daily life may be a sign of more serious illness.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you can't deal with grief, are using excessive amounts of drugs or alcohol, become very depressed, or have prolonged depression that interferes with your daily life.