| When we experience a major
loss, grief is the normal and natural way our mind and body react. Everyone
grieves differently. And at the same time there are common patterns people
tend to share.
For example, someone experiencing
grief usually moves through a series of emotional stages, such as shock,
numbness, guilt, anger and denial. And physical responses are typical also.
They can include: sleeplessness, inability to eat or concentrate, lack
of energy, and lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed.
Time always plays an important
role in the grieving process. As the days, weeks and months go by, the
person who is experiencing loss moves through emotional and physical reactions
that normally lead toward acceptance, healing and getting on with life
as fully as possible.
Sometimes a person can become
overwhelmed or bogged down in the grieving process. Serious losses are
never easy to deal with, but someone who is having trouble beginning to
actively re-engage in life after a few months should consider getting professional
help. For example, if continual depression or physical symptoms such as
loss of appetite, inability to sleep, or chronic lack of energy persists,
it is probably time to see a doctor. |
