Am I the only one who feels a sudden wave of sadness years after a death?

Many people find that grief doesn't follow a neat timeline. It's very common for intense feelings of sadness to resurface, even long after a loss. These feelings often appear unexpectedly, perhaps triggered by a memory, a date, or even something seemingly unrelated. This doesn't mean you're not coping; it's a natural part of how our minds remember and respond to significant life events.

Research suggests that for many, grief can fluctuate in intensity for a decade or more after a significant loss, with periods of acute sadness resurfacing unpredictably.

See other perspectives

Does everyone feel a sudden wave of sadness years after a death?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to feel a sudden wave of sadness years after a death?

Is It Normal?

<h1>Is it weird to feel a sudden wave of sadness years after a death?</h1>

Is It Weird?

Why do I feel a sudden wave of sadness years after a death?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

it’s 2 AM, and the workshop is cold, and the house feels even colder. …

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because I still pay for someone's phone plan, like, even though they're not here anymore and I text it every day, like about my classes and the stupid drama at my internship, and it's just so much… …

unresolved grief

It’s been ingrained since I was barely out of my teens, that whole "mission first" mentality. …

unresolved grief

like still a fucking museum of his old soccer trophies and his dirty laundry from when he was 16 or something—it's been like that for YEARS. …

unresolved grief

Every year, same day, same time more or less, I buy a baby blanket. …

unresolved grief

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I suddenly feel sad about a death from years ago?▾
Sudden sadness can be triggered by a memory, a significant date, or even a new life event that reminds you of what was lost. Your mind is simply recalling the profound impact that person had on your life.
Is it normal to still grieve deeply after many years?▾
Yes, it's absolutely normal. Grief isn't something that simply disappears. Its intensity can lessen over time, but deep feelings can return, especially when you encounter reminders of the person who passed away.
What should I do when unexpected sadness hits after a long time?▾
Allow yourself to feel the emotions without judgment. It can be helpful to remember the person, perhaps look at photos, or talk about them if you feel comfortable. Sometimes, just recognizing the feeling is enough.

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