There is no single way to grieve. Everyone is different and each person grieves in his or her own way. However, many people commonly experience certain stages of grief when they are bereaved. It can be helpful to be aware of these stages and remember that intense emotions and swift changes in mood are normal.

* Feeling emotionally numb is usually the first reaction to a loss, and perhaps lasts for a few hours or days. In some ways this numbness may help you get through the practical arrangements and family pressures that surround the funeral, but if this phase goes on for too long, it could be a problem.

* The numbness may be replaced by a deep yearning for the person who has died. You may feel agitated or angry, and find it difficult to concentrate, relax or sleep. You may also feel guilty, dwelling on arguments you may have had with the dead person or on emotions and words you wished you had expressed.

* This period of strong, often volatile emotions usually gives way to bouts of depression, sadness, silence and withdrawal from family and friends. During this time you may be prone to sudden outbursts of tears, set off by reminders and memories of the dead person.

* Over time, the pain, sadness and depression start to lesson. You begin to see your life in a more positive light again, although it is important to acknowledge that you may not completely overcome the feeling of loss.

* The final phase of grieving is to let go of the person who has died and move on with your life. This helps any lingering depression to clear, and your sleeping patterns and energy levels return to normal.