There's no timeline for feeling better, and grief is something that manifests differently with every person. It's important to lean on your friends when you need to, and you shouldn't feel guilty about that. People need support, especially when they're hit with a difficult memory or reminder.
I [...] I made that sacrifice once. To save my friends. And as much as I don't regret doing what I thought was the right thing, it hurts me all the time, now, to know the pain I caused them. Something being the only decision, or the best decision doesn't mean you can't be hurt by the consequences.