How Long Does Grief Last? The Timelines of Mourning

Written by:

published on:

Updated on:

Contents:

Note: Your support drives Find-A-Therapist. We earn a commission if you purchase services through our ads.

Looking for a therapist?

Grief is a natural response to loss, often experienced when a loved one passes away. Emotions can be overwhelming and unpredictable, ranging from sadness to anger.

The duration of grief varies significantly from person to person; some may feel acute grief for several months, while others may take years to find solace.

Types of Grief

Grief

Each type of grief is unique, reflecting the diverse ways people experience and express loss. Understanding these types can aid in recognizing and supporting grief in oneself and others.

Normal Grief

Normal grief follows a predictable pattern including stages such as denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

This form of grief usually lasts between six months to two years, allowing individuals to gradually adjust to their loss.

Complicated Grief

Complicated grief, or prolonged grief disorder, extends beyond the usual timeframe and severely impacts daily functioning.

Symptoms may include intense yearning, disbelief, and persistent sadness. It often requires professional intervention to help individuals cope.

Anticipatory Grief

Anticipatory grief occurs before an imminent loss, commonly experienced by those caring for terminally ill loved ones.

It allows individuals to prepare emotionally for the loss and to say goodbye, offering some comfort when the loss actually occurs.

Disenfranchised Grief

Disenfranchised grief is experienced when a loss is not socially acknowledged or supported.

This can occur in instances such as the death of a pet or an ex-spouse. Individuals may struggle to find support due to societal norms and expectations.

Chronic Grief

Chronic Grief

Chronic grief persists for a long period and shows no signs of improvement.

Unlike complicated grief, chronic grief may involve ongoing grief reactions that do not interfere significantly with daily life but remain persistent over time.

Secondary Loss Grief

Secondary loss grief relates to the losses that accompany the primary loss, such as financial stability or social roles.

For example, losing a spouse might also mean the loss of a confidant and emotional support, compounding the grief experience.

Collective Grief

Collective grief is experienced by groups, communities, or even nations, often in response to events like natural disasters or acts of terrorism.

Shared loss can provide a sense of solidarity and communal support but also overwhelm collective resources.

Common Symptoms and Reactions

Grief manifests in various ways, often depending on the individual and circumstances.

SymptomsDescription
EmotionalOften include intense sadness, anger, guilt, and anxiety. People may feel overwhelmed and experience a deep sense of yearning for the deceased.
PhysicalCan range from fatigue and headaches to insomnia and weight changes. Some individuals may report chest pain or tightness, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues.
CognitiveIncludes difficulty concentrating, constant thoughts about the deceased, and intrusive memories. Some may also experience disbelief or denial about the loss.
BehavioralMight involve social withdrawal, changes in routine, and avoiding places or activities that remind them of the deceased.

Some might engage in more risky behaviors or increase substance use.
SocialInclude feelings of isolation, strained relationships, and a lack of interest in social activities.

A key aspect is the duration and intensity of these symptoms. Acute mourning may last for several months, notably marked by pangs of grief and yearning as seen in various studies.

Timeline of Grief

Depression and Reflection

The experience of grief is unique to each individual, and its timeline can vary widely. Here are some common stages and durations of grief:

Initial Shock and Denial

  • Duration: Days to weeks
  • People may feel numb or disbelieving. This phase helps cushion the impact of the loss.

Pain and Guilt

  • Duration: Weeks to months
  • Intense feelings of grief and sadness arise. There may be thoughts of what could have been done differently.

Anger and Bargaining

  • Duration: Weeks to months
  • Anger towards oneself, others, or the situation may occur. Some may try to negotiate or make deals to alleviate the pain.

Depression and Reflection

  • Duration: Months to over a year
  • Deep sadness and reflection on the loss are common. Symptoms of depression may manifest, especially in those with a prior history of depression.

Reconstruction and Working Through

  • Duration: Months to years
  • Gradual adjustment to life without the loved one takes place. Individuals start to work through the pain and reconstruct their lives.

Acceptance

  • Duration: Indefinite
  • Acceptance does not mean forgetting. It signifies coming to terms with the loss and continuing with life.

After the First Year

After the First Year

Grieving the loss of a loved one changes significantly after the first year.

Some individuals might notice that specific traditions or anniversaries no longer trigger the same intense emotions. Yet, the sorrow can still be present.

Many find that acute moments of grief become less frequent. Some start to re-engage socially, forming new bonds.

While the intensity might lessen, the grief does not disappear entirely. Remaining conscious of these feelings is essential. For some, prolonged or complicated grief can persist.

Exploring the individual’s ongoing needs is essential for both personal and communal well-being. Grief encompasses various phases, and it’s crucial to acknowledge each stage respectfully and empathetically.

After Several Years

Grief can persist for several years, affecting individuals in various ways. Research indicates that some people continue to experience prolonged grief even six years after a significant loss. This long-term impact can shape their emotional and psychological well-being.

For older parents, the bereavement process tends to unfold in phases over many years. Initially, the grief may be intense, but it can gradually evolve, although persistent feelings of loss often remain.

As time passes, the intensity of grief might diminish, but reminders and anniversaries can still trigger strong emotions. Persistent grief does not mean a lack of healing; instead, it highlights the ongoing connection to the deceased.

Grief is a personal journey, and its duration can vary greatly. While some find solace within a few years, others may continue to navigate their emotions much longer.

Understanding this variability helps in offering support and compassion to those experiencing prolonged grief.

Factors Influencing Grief Duration

Support System

Each person’s journey through grief is different, and timelines may vary. Some elements that can impact how long someone grieves include:

FactorImpact on Grief Duration
Nature of LossThe closer the relationship to the deceased, the deeper the grief.

For instance, losing a spouse or a child often results in prolonged grief compared to losing a distant relative.
Support SystemThose with a robust support system, including family and friends, tend to process grief more swiftly. Isolation can exacerbate and extend grief.
Mental HealthPreexisting mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, can prolong grief. Emotional resilience plays a critical role in coping mechanisms.
Circumstances of DeathUnexpected or violent deaths often result in more prolonged grief compared to deaths from natural causes.

Traumatic circumstances can complicate grieving processes.
Nature of the RelationshipUnresolved conflicts or complicated relationships with the deceased can lead to prolonged grief.

Positive relationships, while deeply mourned, are often easier to process emotionally.
Age and Life StageOlder adults might experience longer-lasting grief due to cumulative losses over a lifetime.

In contrast, younger individuals might show more resilience due to fewer previous losses.

When to Seek Help

Grieving is a personal journey, but there are times when professional assistance may be necessary.

Recognizing signs of prolonged grief disorder is crucial, as is finding the right professional help and knowing where to turn during a crisis.

Recognizing Prolonged Grief Disorder

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) involves intense grief that persists for an extended period, typically over a year. Individuals with PGD may experience:

  • Significant emotional pain
  • Longing for the deceased
  • Difficulty accepting the loss
  • Impaired functioning in daily life
  • Persistent sadness
  • Profound sense of emptiness
  • Inability to find joy in life.

These symptoms can vary in intensity, but a key indicator is their persistence and impact on daily activities.

Recognizing these symptoms early can help individuals seek timely help and begin the healing process. Reaching out to friends and family can also provide crucial support.

Finding Professional Help

Therapy

Professional help from counselors, therapists, or psychologists can provide substantial relief. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and grief counseling are common approaches to managing grief.

Effective counseling can help address complex emotions and develop coping strategies. Therapists might use techniques to help individuals reframe their thoughts and reintegrate into everyday life.

When searching for a therapist, consider their specialization and experience in dealing with grief. Resources like therapist-focused directories such as Find-a-therapist.com and therapy platforms like BetterHelp can be very helpful.

Emergency Support Options

In situations where grief leads to severe emotional distress or thoughts of self-harm, immediate support is necessary. Helplines and crisis text lines offer confidential assistance to anyone in need.

One national resource is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). This hotline provides free and confidential support 24/7 for people in distress, crisis, or experiencing any kind of mental health emergency.

It is crucial to not delay seeking immediate assistance if emotional pain becomes overwhelming. Emergency options are available to provide the necessary support and ensure safety during critical moments.

References

Kersting, A., Kroker, K., Steinhard, J., Lüdorff, K., Wesselmann, U., Ohrmann, P., … & Suslow, T. (2007). Complicated grief after traumatic loss: a 14-month follow up study. European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience257, 437-443. Link.

Malkinson, R., & Bar-Tur, L. (2005). Long term bereavement processes of older parents: The three phases of grief. OMEGA-Journal of Death and Dying50(2), 103-129. Link.

Shuchter, S. R., & Zisook, S. (1993). The course of normal grief. Handbook of bereavement: Theory, research, and intervention, 23-43. Link.

Sveen, J., Bergh Johannesson, K., Cernvall, M., & Arnberg, F. K. (2018). Trajectories of prolonged grief one to six years after a natural disaster. PloS one13(12), e0209757. Link.

Additional Resources

Prioritizing our mental well-being is paramount in today’s fast-paced world. The digital age has redefined therapy and psychiatric care, making support more accessible than ever. To guide you towards a healthier state of mind, we’ve partnered with pioneering names in mental health.
Note: We collaborate with top-tier mental health companies and we earn a commission if you purchase services through our ads.

Online Therapy

Discover a path to emotional well-being with BetterHelp – your partner in convenient and affordable online therapy. With a vast network of 30,000+ licensed therapists, they’re committed to helping you find the one to support your needs. Take advantage of their Free Online Assessment, and connect with a therapist who truly understands you. Begin your journey today.

Relationship Counceling

Whether you’re facing communication challenges, trust issues, or simply seeking to strengthen your connection, ReGain’s experienced therapists are here to guide you and your partner toward a healthier, happier connection from the comfort of your own space. Get started.

Therapist Directory

Discover the perfect therapist who aligns with your goals and preferences, allowing you to take charge of your mental health. Whether you’re searching for a specialist based on your unique needs, experience level, insurance coverage, budget, or location, our user-friendly platform has you covered. Search here.

Mental Health Assesments

Use our mental health assessments to explore concerns like ADHD, anger issues, depression, and toxic relationships.

About the author

Eliana Galindo
Eliana is a dedicated psychologist from Colombia who has gained extensive experience and made significant contributions in child development, clinical psychology, and rehabilitation psychology. Her work as a rehabilitation psychologist with disabled children has been transformative and compassionate. In the child development field, she creates nurturing environments through assessments, interventions, and collaboration with families. In clinical psychology, she supports individuals overcoming mental health challenges with empathy and evidence-based approaches. Inspired by her experiences, Eliana is motivated to write about mental health, aiming to raise awareness and advocate for a compassionate and inclusive approach to well-being.

You might also be interested in

Disclaimers

In some articles, we include products we think are useful for our readers. When you buy through these links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Information on our website is for educational and informational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute, nor does it replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a mental healthcare professional.

If you need an immediate assistance:

Medical Emergency (US) – 911
Medical Emergency (Global) – 112
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – 988
Full List of Emergency Resources 

Online Therapy, Your Way

Discover the ease of starting therapy with BetterHelp. Complete the assessment and connect with a licensed professional therapist online.
Note: We earn a commission if you purchase services through our ads.