The death of someone significant to you is one of the hardest things you will experience in your life. Whether it is expected or a shock, the enormity of loss is something that impacts you in a very profound way.
Grief takes a long time to work through. There are no hard and fast guidelines for this. It takes as long as it takes, but as a rule, it will take longer than you expect. It is important not to try to 'get over it' too quickly, nor adopt a 'stiff upper lip' attitude.
Grieving is an inevitable and human response. If suppressed, it may well surface at a later, less appropriate stage. Sometimes there seems to be an expectation that you will have recovered after a certain amount of time has elapsed. But everyone has their own recovery time that cannot be hurried.
Cruse Bereavement Care Cruse’s website has lots of information and resources. They offer a helpline and online chat services if you need to speak to someone. There are also links to local Cruse services who offer individual and group bereavement support sessions.
Hope Again supports young people living after loss. Their website features personal stories, advice on what to do when someone dies, and links to further resources and support.
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide is a self-help organisation set up to meet the needs of those bereaved by the suicide of a close friend or family member. They provide a helpline, information, email support and access to local support groups.