Why Do I Suffer So Much After Loss Of A Loved One?

As a reaction to the loss, do you experience symptoms of sadness associated with insomnia, poor appetite and/or weight loss?

Do you regard the depressed mood as "normal”?

Did you seek professional help for relief of symptoms such as insomnia or anorexia?

Grief and loss are part of life. Some people get back to their normal life quickly, others take a bit linger. Based on your answers, you may be experiencing some emotions as a reaction to the loss. There is a difference between uncomplicated grief and complicated grief of bereavement. Uncomplicated grief is the normal reaction to a loss, which can be painful but after some time the person is able to participate in activities normally again. Complicated grief happens when the person is impaired in their everyday life because of the loss. Only a mental health professional is able to make a distinction between complicated and uncomplicated grief. Don’t be afraid to ask help.

Based on your answers, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have uncomplicated bereavement. It is completely normal to suffer and to go through several stages of grief, however some individuals develop symptoms associated to those of a major depressive disorder. These people usually think that their symptoms are ‘normal’. After loss of a loved one, it is very important that you can move forward and take care of your own health. Some people may need a little help to deal with the situation. Professional therapy is available for grievers, to help them deal with the loss and to teach them better coping strategies. Therapy will help you to stop suffering and to move on with your life.