Grief specialist David Kessler says most people wait five years before seeking help, and many more wait until after the one-year mark. Grief doesn't resolve on a timeline. Support works whenever you're ready to reach out.
I'm David Kessler, and this is what I know. I've been a grief and loss specialist for years. Do you know when most people finally ask for help with their grief? I can't tell you. Over so many years, people have said to me, I would check in on my friend, or I'd give them your book, or tell them about your grief group, but it's been 2 months or 6 months, and I clearly have missed the moment. Here's the shocking thing. My colleagues and I were talking about when most people actually show up for help. Around 5 years. Think about that. They've sat with it, churned with it. It doesn't seem to be going away, and they finally decide to get help. The second most common time is after the 1-year mark. They were hoping the grief would be done in a year. The reality is grief has a much longer shadow than we think. So if you think it's too late for you or a friend to get support at 3, 6 months, whenever it is, Support never expires. Grief patiently waits. Let me know your thoughts. Follow me for more support and information.
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