Grief

Grief is a complex experience that encompasses the emotional and physical effects one feels when coping with a significant loss. It is a highly individual process that can be felt in response to death of a loved one, divorce, loss of a home or other major life events. While grieving a loss is a natural process, feelings and symptoms of grief that persist for long periods of time without getting easier to deal with or impact your ability to function on a daily basis, may be a sign to speak to a mental health professional. 

Symptoms of Grief

Symptoms of grief vary from person to person, as every individual grieves differently. Since grief can impact every part of one’s life, symptoms can present as emotional, physical or behavioral. Some commonly reported symptoms of grief include: 

  • Feelings of sadness or depression

  • Numbness, denial, shock or disbelief

  • Anxiety and panic

  • Anger

  • Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

  • Confusion

  • Trouble with decision-making

  • Headaches

  • Fatigue

  • Muscle or joint pain

  • Social isolation and withdrawal

Coping with Grief

Coping with feelings of grief is a long-term process with no distinct end. There are several strategies you can implement to help yourself through the process and make it easier to support yourself and those around you. 

  • Practice self-care: It is important to take care of yourself, especially during the grieving process. Prioritizing getting proper rest and nutrition, meditating, and bathing without feeling guilty is important. 

  • Feel your emotions: Grief can encompass a variety of emotions including deep sadness, anger, guilt, loneliness, helplessness, and numbness. It is important to acknowledge and work through these emotions. 

  • Create a routine: Working on developing regular healthy habits can help you focus on things within your control. Following a healthy diet, adhering to a regular sleep schedule, and partaking in healthy exercise and movement can go a long way to helping create routine and stability. 

  • Reach out to others: For some people, reaching out to others can help decrease the burden of grieving alone. Family, friends, support groups, and religious or spiritual leaders may play a pivotal role in providing support. 

  • Talk to a therapist or grief counselor: Sometimes, working with a professional to navigate the grieving process can be beneficial. If feelings of grief get in the way of your ability to function on a daily basis, or have not improved after six months, it may be time to consult a mental health professional for additional support. 

When should I see a professional?

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of grief that cannot be managed on your own or interfere with your daily life, it may be time to consult a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatric nurse practitioner. At Tree of Life Counseling Center in Princeton and Freehold, NJ, we have an experienced team of 50+ clinicians to help support you through whatever you may be facing. Schedule an appointment today by calling 732-393-8391 or filling out an online form at https://www.treeoflifecc.org/start-today