Bereavement is the experience of losing someone you love through death. When a person dies, their family and friends enter a period of bereavement, a time of deep sadness and adjustment to life without that person.

Someone in bereavement might feel shocked, sad, angry, or confused. These feelings are normal and natural. A child whose grandmother dies experiences bereavement. A family whose father passes away goes through bereavement together.

People in bereavement often receive special consideration from others. Schools might give a student time off after a family death. Employers typically grant bereavement leave so workers can attend funerals and spend time with family. Friends and neighbors might bring meals or send cards to show they care.

Bereavement looks different for everyone. Some people cry often, while others feel numb. Some want to talk about the person who died, while others need quiet time alone. There's no right or wrong way to experience bereavement. Over time, the sharpest pain usually softens, though people never forget the ones they've lost.