You may be surprised to know that your experience is not unusual. Losing a husband suddenly and unexpectedly initially causes shock and a feeling of numbness. But it's not until later that you may begin to feel the full impact of the loss.

Grieving the loss of a spouse is a long process, and many people find that the second year is even more painful than the first. The reality of your loss has set in as you’ve coped with taking on all of the tasks the two of you once shared. The daily support of friends and family you experienced immediately following your husband’s death has likely subsided.

In addition, the grieving spouse often gets the feeling that others think he or she should “be over it.” In reality, the grief process takes time and should not be rushed. Allow yourself the time to work through your grief at your pace. Keep in mind that there isn’t a timetable for grief, and it will eventually subside. While you’ll never be exactly the person you were, you will learn to move on in a way that’s best for you. If you’re concerned that you’re not moving on as you’d like, consider joining a support group or seeking professional help.

For more information on grief and loss, visit: http://www.extension.org/pages/Loss_and_Grief.

You may also see:

"On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss" (2005) by: Elisabeth Kubler-Ross and David Kessler

"Caregiving and Loss" (2001) edited by: Kenneth J. Doka and Joyce D. Davidson

"Surviving the Loss of a Spouse" (2006) edited by: Sheryl Garrett