Grief and support
When does grief become a mental health problem?
Short answer
Complicated grief (or prolonged grief disorder) is when intense grief significantly disrupts functioning for more than 12 months. If someone cannot return to basic daily activities, is having suicidal thoughts, or is using substances to cope, professional help is needed.
What this usually means
Complicated grief (or prolonged grief disorder) is when intense grief significantly disrupts functioning for more than 12 months. If someone cannot return to basic daily activities, is having suicidal thoughts, or is using substances to cope, professional help is needed.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.