The Physical Work of Grief
Grieving is hard work.
It is physically taxing, mentally demanding, and spiritually challenging.
I can’t think of any other work that compares to grief’s intensity or its impact. The exhaustion that comes with grieving can feel similar to the fatigue after heavy physical labor — except it lingers, and there is no clear finish line.
How Grief Affects the Body
Grief does not live only in our emotions.
It lives in our bodies.
The physical toll of grief often surprises people. Many of these reactions are sometimes mistaken for strictly medical problems, when they may actually be part of the body’s natural response to loss.
Below are some common physical symptoms of grief.
Common Physical Symptoms of Grief
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Chest pains or heart-related sensations
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Dizziness
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Dry mouth
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An empty or hollow feeling in the stomach
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Fatigue or lack of energy
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A sensation of something “stuck” in the throat
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Headaches
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Difficulty sleeping
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Sleeping much more than usual
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Loss of sexual desire, or at times an unusually increased sexual desire
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Weight loss or weight gain
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Nausea or vomiting
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Increased allergic reactions
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Oversensitivity to noise
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Restlessness or purposeless activity
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Hyperactivity
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Shortness of breath
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Trembling
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Uncontrollable sighing or sobbing
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Muscle weakness
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Gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, or excessive gas
Any of these symptoms can be a normal part of grieving. They are ways the body responds to the profound stress of losing someone we love.
When to Seek Medical Care
If physical symptoms persist, worsen, or become very uncomfortable, it is important to make an appointment with your physician.
Be sure to tell them that you have experienced a recent major loss. Grief does not replace medical care — but it deserves to be considered as part of the picture.
When the Body Mirrors the Loss
Some people notice physical symptoms similar to those experienced by the person who died. For example, if your loved one died from a heart attack, you may notice chest discomfort. If they died from a brain tumor, headaches may increase.
This can be an unconscious way of identifying with the person who died and feeling close to them. It is another way the body expresses grief.
Your Body Is Communicating With You
Right now, you may not feel in control of how your body is responding. Your body is communicating the stress and sorrow you are carrying.
While these experiences can feel frightening, they are usually temporary.
You are not broken.
Your body is grieving too.
Wishing you comfort and health,
Lee
