Grief is a Natural Response to Loss

What Are the Emotional Aspects of Grief?

People who are grieving report feeling:

• Numb

• Nostalgic

• Stressed 

• Irritable

• Confrontational

• ... and other emotions, too

• Sad

• Anxious

• Confused

• Withdrawn

• Vulnerable

• Guilty

• Afraid

• Listless

It is normal to feel strong waves of powerful emotions during acute and even longer-term grief.  Everyone is different, and every day can be different, too.

What Are the Physical and Cognitive Symptoms Grief?

Symptoms can include:

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• Insomnia

• Rapid heartbeat

• Muscle and joint pain

• Headaches

• Lowered immunity

• Difficulty concentrating

• Forgetting important information, like appointments

• Losing items that are normally easy to find, like keys or wallets

• Making careless mistakes

• Clumsiness

• Temptation to abuse substances

• Inclination to engage in risky behaviors

• Compulsions to complete tasks, work through to-do lists

In What Ways Can I Manage My Grief?

Everyone’s grief journey is deeply personal. The following suggestions can be helpful for navigating grief in a healthier way: 

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1. Acknowledge that your grief is valid

2. Accept that grief can trigger a wide range of unexpected emotions

3. Understand that your grieving process will be unique to you

4. Allow the people in your life to show they care, even if it cannot be face-to-face

5. Understand the connection between your physical and emotional health

6. Take action by seeking support from trusted and qualified sources