Losing a loved one brings waves of sadness, longing and sometimes guilt. These waves usually become less intense over months.
Rituals, family support and time help most people. Some develop depression or prolonged grief that needs treatment.
Key concepts
- In grief, sadness comes in waves linked to reminders
- In depression, low mood and worthlessness are constant
- Prolonged grief lasts much longer than expected and stops daily life
Symptoms and signs
- Intense longing and preoccupation with the person
- Difficulty accepting the death; numbness
- In depression: self-blame, hopelessness, loss of interest in everything
Causes
- Close or dependent relationship with the person
- Sudden, violent or untimely death
- Lack of support after the rituals end
Risk factors
- Previous depression
- Loss of a child or spouse
- Financial or practical crises after the death
Evidence-based management
- Allow grief; talk about the person and share memories
- Keep basic routines: meals, sleep, some activity
- Grief counselling for prolonged or complicated grief
- Treatment of depression when present
When to seek professional help
- Unable to function months after the loss
- Wanting to die to be with the person
- Any thoughts of self-harm or suicide — call Tele-MANAS 14416 or 112 today
Frequently asked questions
How long should grief last?
There is no fixed time, and cultural rituals differ. Concern arises when intense grief persists for many months and disrupts life.
Will medicines stop me grieving?
No. Medicines are for depression or severe sleep problems, not to remove normal grief.
Medical references
Guidelines and official sources used for this article.
- ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics. World Health Organization.
- mhGAP Intervention Guide for mental, neurological and substance use disorders in non-specialized health settings, version 2.0. World Health Organization, 2016.
- Author
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
- Medical reviewer
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MD Psychiatry
- Last reviewed
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
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