A number of factors that come into play when a person is grieving. The grieving process is an individual matter, and though there are some common tendencies, behaviors can vary widely. Each person's grieving process should be respected. It takes time to go through the steps of grieving, and if that process is not completed, it can lead to depression and other mental health issues.
Considerations
Sudden death or loss can be shocking and require a longer period of time to grieve completely than a loss that was expected, giving you time to prepare for the loss. Your personality plays into how you will grieve and the nature of the relationship also affects the process.
Process
The normal grieving process is somewhat predictable for most people, according to Hospice of the North Shore. The first step typically is shock, accompanied by a numb feeling, followed by an emotional release. In this last stage you should let your feelings out in the form of crying or talking or other forms of expression. This period is followed by any number of reactions, including preoccupation with the loss, physical symptoms, hostility or guilt. Depression and withdrawal may follow. Finally, acceptance and readjustment take place, and the grief can be replaced by good memories.
Warning
While crying often is a part of normal grieving, it is not necessarily a requirement for everyone. Holding in grief, however, can be dangerous. If you feel like crying and you just can't, you may need to see a counselor or mental health professional who can recommend therapy to help you complete the grieving process. Sometimes medication is required for those who feel they will lose control if they allow themselves to grieve.
Features
It is normal for grief to return from time to time. Many people go through grieving at the anniversary of their loss. Situations or people can bring up reminders of your loss and start the grieving process all over again. Feelings experienced when you first started grieving may return in full force, including extreme sadness, anxiety, crying jags and sleeplessness.
Time Frame
Normal grieving should last about six months and then begin to taper off so that the feelings are not so extreme. When the grieving does not lessen, other factors may be at play. When grief extends longer than six months or so, you may be experiencing other disorders, such as depression or post traumatic stress. See a doctor or counselor if grieving persists.
