Unhealthy grieving often referred to as complicated or prolonged grief goes beyond normal sadness and can significantly impair daily functioning. Unlike typical grief, which gradually lessens over time, unhealthy grieving may involve intense longing for the deceased that doesn’t ease, persistent denial of the loss, or an inability to re-engage with life months or even years later.

Key signs include avoiding places or activities once shared with the loved one, withdrawing from social connections, or experiencing persistent feelings of worthlessness or guilt tied to the death. Some individuals may develop symptoms that mimic depression or anxiety disorders, such as chronic insomnia, loss of appetite, or even suicidal ideation. Others might numb their pain through substance misuse or obsessive behaviors, which can mask unresolved emotional trauma rather than heal it.

Unhealthy grief may also manifest as “frozen grief,” where the person appears emotionally shut down, unable to discuss or process the loss. In contrast, some may become fixated on the circumstances of the death, replaying events endlessly without moving toward acceptance.

If grief interferes with work, relationships, or self-care for more than six to twelve months or if it triggers self-harm or severe emotional distress it may be time to seek professional support. Grief counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or support groups specifically for bereavement can help individuals process loss in a healthier, more sustainable way.

Because everyone’s grieving timeline differs, it’s less about how long someone grieves and more about whether their grief becomes disabling. Recognizing the signs of unhealthy grieving early can prevent long-term mental health consequences and foster a more resilient path forward.

If you or someone you know is struggling to cope with loss, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist or a grief support organization because healing shouldn't have to happen alone.