Grief
Symptoms of Grief
Grief manifests in a spectrum of emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms following the loss of a loved one or significant life change. Emotionally, individuals experiencing grief may endure intense sadness, longing, anger, guilt, or a sense of numbness. Physically, grief can lead to fatigue, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and various bodily aches or pains. Cognitively, grieving individuals might struggle with concentration, memory lapses, or preoccupation with thoughts of the deceased or the loss itself. These symptoms vary widely among individuals and can fluctuate in intensity as one navigates through the mourning process, reflecting the multifaceted nature of grief’s impact on mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
When to Seek Help for Grief
Seeking help for grief is essential when the intensity or duration of grief symptoms becomes overwhelming or significantly impairs daily functioning. If feelings of grief persist for an extended period without any improvement, disrupt relationships, or lead to thoughts of self-harm, it’s crucial to seek professional support.