Breanne Cook - Grief Guide and Educator

Grief can affect us in more ways than we realise-physically, emotionally, cognitively, and even spiritually. Often, we only think about the emotions, but grief is a full-body, holistic experience. These are some of the things you may experience while grieving and symptoms I can help with.

Physical Symptoms of Grief

Some common physical symptoms include:

Fatigue - Feeling drained and exhausted, as if everything takes more effort.
Sleep problems - Struggling to fall asleep, waking a lot throughout the night, or sleeping more than you usually would.
Appetite - You might find that you eat more or less than usual.
Aches and pains - Headaches, muscle tension, tightness in the chest, or stomach pain.
Weakened immune system - Getting ill more
Shortness of breath or heart palpitations - Grief can trigger anxiety-like symptoms.
Restlessness - Feeling unable to sit still or relax.

These symptoms are a normal response to loss, but please consult your Doctor if you are worried about any of them or they persist.

Emotional Symptoms of Grief

You might experience:

Sadness or despair - A deep sense of longing, or emptiness.
Anger - Directed at yourself, others, or even the person who has died.
Guilt and regret - Over things said or unsaid, or thinking 'what if'?
Anxiety or fear - Worry about the future, the meaning of life, or your own mortality.
Relief - Due to the person suffering or specific dynamics of the relationship.
Irritability or frustration - Feeling easily overwhelmed by small things.
Emotional numbness = Feeling disconnected, not being able to feel much at all.

Cognitive Symptoms of Grief

Some cognitive symptoms include:

Brain fog - Struggling to focus, make decisions, or process information.
Forgetfulness - Losing track of time, misplacing things, or struggling with daily tasks.
Intrusive thoughts - Replaying memories, regrets, or imagining different scenarios.
Disbelief - Feeling like the loss hasn't happened, struggling to accept it.
Existential - Questioning meaning and purpose in the world.
Difficulty planning for the future - Feeling uncertain about what comes next or lacking motivation.

Spiritual Symptoms of Grief

Some people may experience:

Questioning beliefs - Wondering why, questioning God and your faith.
Seeking signs or connection - Looking for meaning.
Loss of meaning - Struggling to find purpose in life after loss.
Deepening spiritual connection - Feeling closer to beliefs or faith.