People often expect to be back to normal after just a few weeks or months, and others might expect this of you too. Try to be patient with yourself.
Many people are hard on themselves, thinking things like: “I should be over this by now.” Grief is very individual – there is no set time frame. Giving yourself time to grieve is the best way to heal.
Learn more about:
- After the funeral
- Triggers for your grief
- The ‘up and down’ nature of grief
- Will it always be this hard?
- If you feel ‘stuck’ or desperate
Podcast: Coping with Grief
Listen to more episodes from our podcast for people affected by cancer
More resources
Kate Jurgens, Bereavement Coordinator, Southern Adelaide Palliative Services, SA; Gabrielle Asprey, Cancer Support Consultant, Cancer Council NSW; A/Prof Lauren Breen, Psychologist, Curtin University, WA; Rev David Dawes, Manager, Spiritual Care Department, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC; Rob Ferguson, Consumer; Karen Hall, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council SA; Joanna Mangan, Psychologist, Cancer Council Queensland; Kate Reed, Nurse Practitioner National Clinical Advisor, Palliative Care Australia; Maxine Rosenfield, Counsellor and Educator, NSW.
View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.
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Support services
Caring for someone with cancer
Speak to a health professional or to someone who has been there, or find a support group or forum
Cancer Council Online Community
A community forum – a safe place to share stories, get tips and connect with people who understand
Cancer information
Emotions and cancer
People who are affected by cancer in some way can experience a range of emotions, that can be very challenging to deal with at times. Learn more.
End of life
This information may help you better cope with end of life, or support someone who may be dying with cancer