Why grief support matters: New research links prolonged grief to long-term health risks

Grief is a universally human experience, but one which varies hugely from individual to individual.  A study by researchers in Denmark has found that people experiencing intense, prolonged grief after the death of a loved one are nearly twice as likely to die within ten years. The research offers compelling evidence that grief isn’t just emotional, it can also have serious, long-lasting impacts on our physical and mental health. 

At MuchLoved, we believe this strengthens the case for early, compassionate bereavement care and better grief education for all. 

Grief that doesn't ease

The Danish study* followed over 900 bereaved people for more than a decade who had lost their partner, parent or other family member. While many adapted well over time, a significant group showed persistent, high levels of grief symptoms. 

The study found that people in this group were: 

• Almost twice as likely to die within the subsequent 10-year period 
• Significantly higher users of healthcare services 
• More likely to take medication for depression, anxiety, or sleep problems 

This isn’t to say grief always leads to illness, but it underlines that when grief remains unsupported, the consequences can be profound.  

Why accessible bereavement support is essential 

Not everyone who struggles with grief will feel comfortable seeking professional help, and even fewer will know where to turn. Many will be unaware of all the physical symptoms that can manifest in grief. That’s why it’s vital that bereavement care is made visible, accessible, and free from stigma. 

At MuchLoved, we see every online tribute not only as a space to remember and share, but also as providing access to emotional support.  From lighting a candle or sharing a story, to accessing live bereavement counselling through services like GriefChat.   

The role of grief education

This study also highlights the need for more grief-literate communities, such as: 

• Healthcare professionals better trained to spot prolonged grief 
• Employers who understand the impact of bereavement on staff 
• Schools and workplaces that create space for open conversation 
• Families and friends who know how to offer real support 

The good news? Grief education in the UK is evolving. Public campaigns, workplace initiatives, and digital platforms are all helping people understand that grief is not linear, and that support may be needed long after the funeral has passed. 

What we can all do to support people close to us who are bereaved

Connection with family, friends and community matters a great deal for bereaved people. Feeling that their loss is acknowledged and that they have the support of family and friends can make all the difference. There are some simple things we can all do to show we care:

• Understand that grief takes time, and that sometimes it can be too much to handle alone 
• Offer the bereaved person opportunities to remember, express how they feel and connect with others who may be sharing the same experience 
• Continue to talk about their grief and the person they have lost, even if we might prefer to shy away from it 

A final thought

It’s clear that offering access to effective bereavement support is a health imperative. This new research reinforces what many grieving people already know: that love and loss affect the whole self. With the right support, we can help each other carry grief in ways that feel less lonely, and ultimately, more healing.

*The report can be read here: Frontiers | Grief trajectories and long-term health effects in bereaved relatives: a prospective, population-based cohort study with ten-year follow-up

At MuchLoved, we’re committed to providing support for bereaved families, in partnership with charities and funeral businesses.  If you have questions about the MuchLoved service, please contact our Support team.  Email support@muchloved.com or call our team on 01494 722818