Grief

Grief is the emotional response to losing someone you love. The National Cancer Institute (opens in a new tab) describes grief and mourning as a normal part of dealing with a loss. Grief is more than sadness: the AAP (opens in a new tab) says it can bring disbelief, denial, confusion, anger, anxiety and a deep longing for the person to come back, and it can affect sleep and eating.

Things that are normal:

• grief comes in waves, and can return at birthdays, holidays and milestones, even years later;
• there is no right or wrong way to grieve, the Dougy Center (opens in a new tab) says;
• most bereaved people work through the most intense grief within the first 6 months to 2 years, according to the NCI, though the loss stays part of their lives.

For a small group of people, intense grief lasts and stops them from living their lives; that may be prolonged grief disorder, and help works. If you are struggling, call or text 988 any time, for free and confidential support. Call 911 in an emergency. See making room for grief and where to find grief support.

What you can do today: tell one trusted person how you are really doing.