Losing a loved one is one of the most extremely distressing and yet very common experiences people face. After the loss it is perfectly normal and healthy to have a period of depression, guilt, anger, and a plethora of other complex emotions. These feelings are normal and with a little time, and a little effort, these feelings will eventually fade, allowing the person to accept their loss and move forward.
There are times when the feelings do not fade, and the person is unable to move forward. If the feelings of loss, depression, and disbelief do not go away for six months, if the feeling of normality is impossible to grasp, then the person might have Complicated Grief or Prolonged Grief Disorder. If so, seeking treatment is imperative since these strong feelings of depression, if prolonged, could become emotionally damaging.
Teens and young adults may deal with complicated grief in more physically destructive ways, or ways that could damage their future irreparably. Teens my start abusing drugs, start acting out in illegal ways, or having unprotected sex. School and friendships may be affected, which in turn breaks down support systems that help people move forward.
People who are unable to move need to seek help, so they can begin to live productive stable lives.