How Long Does Grief Last?

Grief has no definitive timeline; it unfolds uniquely for each person. As you navigate the grieving process, you may gradually find relief and a renewed sense of balance.

Grief is a natural response to loss—whether it be the passing of a loved one, the end of a meaningful relationship, or a career setback. It can manifest in many emotions, including sorrow, loneliness, and even unexpected bursts of anger.

Because grief is profoundly personal, no two individuals experience it similarly. Feelings often arise in waves, shifting as you progress through different stages of mourning.

However, if you struggle to accept the loss or suppress your emotions, you may be experiencing what is known as complicated grief.

Acknowledging and allowing yourself to process these emotions can lead to healing and personal growth amid loss.

There is no “correct” way to grieve. Be gentle with yourself, and allow time to heal at your own pace.

Understanding the Timeline of Grief

Grief does not follow a strict schedule; it ebbs and flows unpredictably.

Research from 2020 suggests that those experiencing typical grief may notice an improvement in symptoms after approximately six months, with substantial resolution occurring within one to two years. However, this is merely a general guideline—everyone’s timeline differs.

You may wonder: Can one grieve for too long?

Most people find that, with time, they adapt and learn to manage their loss. It’s common for grief to feel like an emotional roller coaster, with periods of progress followed by sudden waves of sorrow.

If you feel stuck in your grief, seek out grief counselling in London. Our grief counsellors can help you process emotions and guide you during this challenging time.

Progressing through grief is not linear, and that is entirely okay. The key is to remain mindful of your emotions and avoid becoming disconnected from yourself.

Why Does Grief Last Longer for Some?

The duration of grief varies for many reasons. According to Dr. Bobby, factors such as the depth of the relationship, the nature of the loss, personal history, and other life stressors can influence how grief unfolds.

Common emotions that accompany grief include:

1. Emptiness
2. Inability to feel joy
3. Sleep and appetite disturbances
4. Irritability or anger
5. Overwhelming sadness

There is no set timetable for grief. Everyone processes loss in their own way, at their own pace.

Does Grief Ever End?

Grief changes over time, often cycling through different stages. It is possible to move back and forth between these stages or even experience multiple ones simultaneously.

The five stages of grief, as outlined by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, include:

1. Denial
2. Anger
3. Bargaining
4. Depression
5. Acceptance

Certain milestones—birthdays, anniversaries, or sensory reminders like a song or a familiar scent—can trigger grief even years later.

That said, the intensity of grief tends to soften over time. As time passes, the waves of grief become more spaced out and less overwhelming. Eventually, people find comfort in reminiscing about their loved ones without the exact weight of sorrow.

When to Seek Professional Help

There is no “right time” to seek help, but therapy can be beneficial in processing grief. Our counsellors can help you understand the impact of your loss and support your healing journey through grief.

You may consider professional support if you experience:

1. Difficulty making sense of the loss
2. Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally paralyzed
3. A traumatic response in addition to grief
4. Reliance on unhealthy coping mechanisms
5. Signs of complicated grief

Don’t wait until grief feels like an insurmountable problem.

Recognizing Unhealthy Grief

Sometimes, grief can become prolonged or disruptive, leading to what is known as complicated grief.

Complicated grief occurs when feelings of loss remain overwhelmingly intense and do not improve over time. It can feel as though the person is unable to move forward.

Complex relationships, unresolved emotions, or conflicting feelings about the deceased may exacerbate complicated grief. Some people struggle when they feel a mix of emotions—such as anger or even relief—after losing a loved one. These conflicting feelings can make it harder to process the loss.

Another challenge some may face is disenfranchised grief, which occurs when others fail to acknowledge or validate someone’s loss. This can leave the grieving person feeling isolated, misunderstood, or pressured to suppress their emotions.

Finding ways to honour your grief and seeking support—whether through loved ones or professional guidance—is essential to healing.