Long term impacts of not grieving?

Question

In the past two years I have lost two very close friends. The grieving process for these two friends has both been very different. The first friend, who passed away almost two years ago now, I grieved for, for a long period of time and eventually came to accept and understand her passing. However, the second friend, I have not grieved for him at all. My feelings towards his passing are complicated, and I rarely think of these feelings consciously but rather on a subconscious level, they impact on my dreams and sleep etc. I am worried about the long term impact that this absence of the grieving process may have on me?

Any personal experiences and professional opinions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Answer 1

As a healthcare provider I would say that the grieving process is very individual. Don't be so hard on yourself. It works itself out. It doesn't sound as if you are deliberately trying to supress this grief...that is usually when it can have some consequences. But you've experienced a great loss in a short period of time. You cope as you can. Give yourself a little more credit. Don't worry and add even more for you to cope with.