Hopes of healing wither. Our pain worsens with the first holidays, birthdays,and anniversary of our loss. Our emotional deterioration is aggravated by seeing that our loss may have been prevented by our action or that of others. The enormity of our loss creates a sense of powerlessness. Severe stress and pain peak and plateau.
Interpersonal relationships become strained.
We feel alienated from those who do not share our suffering. We lose many interests. Our pain stops growing. It gives way to a dull interminable ache. We regain some energy.