Grief is an individual experience and people can respond to loss in a variety of ways. Responses include emotional, cognitive, physical, relational/social and behavioural changes.
Emotional responses can include:
- sadness
- anger
- guilt and remorse
- anxiety
- loneliness
- helplessness
- shock and disbelief
- a sense of yearning
- relief.
Cognitive changes can include:
- confusion
- difficulty concentrating
- preoccupation with the loss
- a loss of interest in enjoyable activities
- vivid dreams or nightmares.
Physical and behavioural responses can include:
- muscle tightness
- tiredness/reduced energy
- sleep disturbances
- social withdrawal
- changes in appetite
- crying
- restlessness
- avoiding places or people who remind the individual of the loss
- treasuring objects that are associated with the loss.
In addition, there can be significant changes to a person’s spiritual or philosophical views and beliefs. For example, people may question their faith or the meaning of life.