I was greatly saddened today to read about the untimely death of the actress Natascha Richardson.

The grieving process can be tough at the best of times, but particularly if the death has been unexpected and if there are young children left behind.

My experience in working with those who have been touched by bereavement has taught me that no two people grieve in exactly the same way or for the same length of time.

However, there are some commonly felt stages that people tend to go through during the process. Sometimes, it can help to be aware of these stages as means of reassurance or support. These include: Feeling emotionally numb - Whilst this numbness can help you get through the practical arrangements that surround the funeral, if it lasts too long it can become a problem.

Numbness may be replaced by a deep yearning for the person who has died.

You may feel agitated or angry, and find it difficult to concentrate, relax or sleep. You may also feel guilty, dwelling on arguments you had with that person or on emotions and words you wished you had expressed.

This period of strong emotion usually gives way to bouts of intense sadness, silence and withdrawal from family and friends. During this time, you may be prone to sudden outbursts of tears, set off by reminders and memories of the dead person.

Over time, the pain, sadness and depression start to lessen. You begin to see your life in a more positive light again. Although it's important to acknowledge there may always be a feeling of loss, you learn to live with it.

The final phase of grieving is to let go of the person who has died and carry on with your life, though it may not be exactly the same as it was before. Your sleeping patterns and energy levels return to normal.

In all of these stages, talking can often prove a useful means by which to acknowledge and reflect upon these thoughts and feelings. In doing so, it can help you to begin to move on with your life.