Grief or depression? Coping after a loss
Grief is a natural response to losing someone or something important, and it can bring sadness, anger, numbness and trouble sleeping. It usually comes in waves and eases with time and support. If it feels unbearable, does not ease, or you have thoughts of harming yourself, speak to a doctor.
Last updated 2 November 2026
How grief can feel
- sadness, longing or crying
- numbness, shock or disbelief
- anger or guilt
- tiredness, poor sleep or changes in appetite
- trouble concentrating
What can help
- Talk about the person you lost with people you trust.
- Keep to simple routines for sleep, meals and rest.
- Take time to grieve in your own way. There is no set timetable.
- Accept help from family, friends or a support group.
Grief or depression?
Grief often comes in waves, with moments of comfort between them. Depression is a constant low mood, with feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness and little interest in anything. The two can overlap, and a loss can also trigger depression.
When to get help
Speak to a doctor if grief stops you from functioning for a long time, feels overwhelming, or comes with thoughts that life is not worth living. A psychiatrist or psychologist can offer support and treat depression if it has developed.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.
How to start
- Call or message us. Reach us on +91 90352 54779 or WhatsApp. Tell us your language and a convenient time.
- Free pre-consultation call. Our team takes your history and prepares a report for your clinician, so you do not repeat yourself.
- Video session. You meet your allotted clinician online, from home or wherever you feel comfortable.
- Your plan. The clinician explains what they find and the next steps. You decide together.
Book your free pre-consultation call
Your privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
How long does grief last?
There is no fixed time. Many people feel the sharpest pain at first, and it softens gradually, though it can return on anniversaries or at reminders.
Is it normal to feel angry or guilty?
Yes. Anger, guilt and relief can all be part of grief.
Can I get support online?
Yes. Counselling and psychiatric support can be done by video from home.
Related
- Grief and bereavement
- Depression
- When to see a psychiatrist
- Trouble sleeping? Insomnia and what helps
- Exam stress: signs for students and parents
Sources
Mindly Health is not an emergency service. If someone is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.