My son committed suicide a year ago at age 26. I still am having a hard time dealing with his death. It seems like the pain has gotten worse. I go through crying sprees I cannot control. Is this normal? I am on medication and see someone for a half an hour once a month. How long does it usually take to feel normal? Time seems to go by and I'm so lost. I guess I'm always looking for something that might help me through this. What happens to people when one of their loved ones commits suicide?

S.

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Yes, it is completely normal for someone whose child has died -- especially through suicide -- to experience intense emotional pain, grief, sadness, and confusion for some time after the death.

I really can't predict the path of your grieving process, or its length. Everyone's journey is unique. However, you might benefit from talking with other people whose loved ones have killed themselves. Your local crisis hotline may be able to refer you to a Survivors of Suicide (SOS) group. These free support groups for family and friends of suicides can provide helpful support and solace.

A once-a-month 30-minute medication check may not be providing you with the level of assistance you need in navigating these troubling times. I'm curious, frankly, about what medication you're on and why it was prescribed. Were you on it before your son died, or was it prescribed to you in response to your distress over your son's suicide? Have you found it helpful ... or does it make you feel there's something pathological or wrong with what may be a completely normal -- although painful -- grief?

Another option in addition to the SOS group is to see a counselor for regular weekly sessions to help you sort through your pain and confusion. Your psychiatrist may be able to refer you to an appropriate counselor, as can the SOS group or a crisis hotline. Good luck.