Coping With Grief: Physical and Emotional Symptoms

Reading time: 4 mins

Many people struggle with knowing the signs of grief. Sometimes, the symptoms may mimic depression or contribute to a recurrent depressive episode. Grief can feel like an emotional roller coaster in that symptoms can shift and change from moment to moment. It is not uncommon to feel relatively well in one moment and emotionally fragile in the next moment. Grief can impact you emotionally and physically. Please see below:

Physical:
• Exhaustion
• Sleep disruption
• Lowered immune system
• Slower response time/concentration
• Appetite change
• Decreased Activities of Daily Living

Emotional:
• Irritable
• Low Frustration tolerance
• Anger
• Distancing/Isolation
• Guilt
• Loss of support

Grief is an individualized experience. Different people grieve in different ways and this is very normal. A strong supportive network that may be comprised of family, friends, chosen family, or church community is important as you go through the many stages of grief. You may also find the professional guidance and support of a therapist helpful. I have compassionately worked with many individuals and assisted them in navigating grief while embracing a fulfilling and rich life.