Effects After a Death of a Spouse

The grieving process is a normal part of losing a spouse.

The death of a spouse is a difficult event for people of all ages. Though most people have similar feelings, the grieving process is different for everybody and may last longer for some.

Emotional

You may feel guilt or hopelessness after your spouse is gone. It is common to feel an immense amount of sorrow or fear at the idea of being alone. You may even feel angry that your spouse left you. These feelings are normal and lessen over time.

Physical

People who endure the grieving process often feel physical pain. They may cry easily, experience trouble sleeping, have problems with concentration and experience a change in appetite. Poor physical health is another common complaint.

Depression

Depression is the most common effect of the death of a spouse. Most people who experience depression do not experience the symptoms for more than two years. If you do not learn to handle your grief in a healthy way, your depression may progress from normal grieving into a pathological condition.

References

• National Institute on Aging: Age Page: Mourning the Death of a Spouse
• Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences: Depression following death of a spouse

Resources

• Hospice of the North Shore: The Grieving Process