The pain of grief may include physical, emotional, and behavioral reactions. It is helpful to acknowledge and work through the grief responses. Being able to identify some common reactions allows you to know that what is happening to you is considered normal for people experiencing grief. Some common grief reactions are listed below.
Behavioral Reactions
Apathetic regarding activities
Blaming others
Detached from surroundings
Disoriented to time and places
Preoccupied
Seeking Forgiveness
Seeking Solitude
Unable to concentrate
Withdrawn from friends and activities
Emotional Reactions
Anger
Bitterness
Disbelief and denial
Guilt
Hopelessness
Numbness and shock
Sadness
The feeling of being lost
Yearning Despair
Physical Reactions
Crying
Decrease in activity
Decreased resistance to illness
Deep sighing
Increased blood pressure
Increased sensory awareness
Muscular tension
Rapid heartbeat
Weakness and fatigue
Weight and appetite change
Lifestyle Tips for People In Grief
Eat regularly and maintain a balanced diet.
Avoid sweets, fatty foods, alcoholic beverages, and caffeine.
Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily.
Incorporate 20-30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine (after consulting with your physician).
Practice deep breathing in fresh air and maintain good posture.
Get adequate rest and take short naps during the day.
Avoid watching TV alone.
Keep regular hours and strive for a balance between work, relationships, and alone time.
Help is Available
Grieving after a loss can be a difficult and ongoing challenge - but you don't have to face it alone. Whether you're going through a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, help is available.