It is normal to feel a lot of sadness and grief that can last for six months to one year, when one loses a loved one, according to a Department of Health (DOH) psychiatrist.
According to the American Psychological Association, grief is the intense anguish and emotional suffering experienced after a significant loss, most commonly the death of a loved one.
It is a natural response that can manifest as emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms like sadness, fatigue, and confusion, and involves a process of coping.
"It is normal to be sad. It varies depending on how long the sadness lasts," Dr. Sharlene Mae Ongoco of the National Center for Mental Health said.
"Because grief that we know normally lasts six months to a year, because how we process and manifest our grief differs," Ongoco explained.
To those who are grieving, Ongoco advised them to practice self-care, such as eating nutritious food, sleeping six to eight hours daily, and exercising.
"Also, attend to your emotions. If you feel like crying or being angry, just let it out. The release of those emotions will help you in your healing process," she said.
"Reach out to others, especially to people you feel comfortable telling your stories," she added.