Dreams and hopes do get you somewhere.

Grow some sage; it helps medicinally with many things such as memory and being calm as does lavender

There is much evidence on people who are hopeful, smile, act kindly and dream about better times.
You do literally drown yourself in tears if you stay there too long. There is not a official time on grief and sorrow but my nana thought so.

Grief and dying

Back in the days when they wore black scarfs and dresses during grieving time, they did it for an entire year. That was their official number.
So if you are grieving about anything, whether it is a death, divorce, separation, it does not matter, you have to give yourself time to get to the other side.

Your Spirit
Spirituality does help you to gather yourself, become centered and in balance quicker.
Getting in touch with your spirit can involve prayer, meditation and some yoga to help you feel better.
I have found many ways to become more optimistic about things. My favorite way is to give a gift to someone.
And remember that gifts can be a smile, a rose you just picked or a pat on the back to someone in need.