Any kind of significant loss comes with a period of grief, which can affect much more than your feelings and moods. The emotional impact of grief can definitely take a toll on your physical health. Even when you have time to prepare, you may have difficulty sleeping or eating after a loss. Grieving a type of loss that’s misunderstood, taboo or unexpected can be more complicated.

With the stress you’re already experiencing, the thought of having new health conditions can be overwhelming. If you’re having thoughts of suicide or dying, call or text 988, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, for immediate support.

Knowing what kinds of physical symptoms commonly come and go during the grief process can provide some comfort and help you feel more prepared. This article outlines 10 physical symptoms people commonly experience while they’re grieving.

How can grief affect my physical health?

Grief can affect every system in your body, from your cardiovascular health to digestion and immunity. Symptoms can be minor, like an upset stomach or headaches and fatigue. Insomnia and loss of appetite can cause more issues over time. The stress and tension of grieving can also cause things like fatigue, dizziness and numbness. If you are prone to certain ongoing conditions like aches, indigestion inflammation or joint pain, these can be aggravated. In cases of severe or long-lasting grief, some people have heart problems like high blood pressure and heart rate, arrhythmias, or constriction of blood vessels. Over time, types of chronic stress like prolonged grief can contribute to long-term issues, such as chronic inflammation or cardiovascular problems, which could predispose individuals to various diseases. Managing grief effectively will help you minimize these health risks.

If you’re already vulnerable because of an existing condition, grief can add complications. You should take extra care to make sure you have the support you need. Take any medications you need as they’re prescribed and stick to any dietary recommendations from your doctor. Finding simple ways to take care of your needs and knowing when to reach out for help are very important for your overall wellness.

What physical conditions are associated with grief?

Physical manifestations of grief most often pass with some rest and loving care. But it takes much longer to recover from grief than the few days of bereavement leave most jobs provide. Emotional and psychological symptoms might linger, and they vary widely among individuals. During this time, you may need some extra support from friends or family to make sure you’re eating, sleeping and getting some movement each day. 

Health symptoms caused by grief can still be very serious and require care from a doctor. It depends on your health history and the symptoms you’re experiencing. Be mindful of your health, but try not to let it become a source of anxiety. If you’re having heart problems, suicidal thoughts, severe indigestion or pain that doesn’t go away, seek medical help immediately by calling 911.

If you experience the following symptoms in the weeks and months after a loss, there’s a good chance that grief is a contributing factor:

• Chest and throat pain — Tightness or heaviness in your chest or throat is most often a normal sensation related to grief. If you have a heart condition, you should talk with your doctor.
• Upset stomach — Nausea and gastrointestinal issues can be caused by grief. Take over-the-counter medications and talk with your doctor if these symptoms are severe or don’t go away.
• Loss of appetite — You may not feel like eating while you’re grieving. It’s still important to eat enough and have a balanced diet. See if a friend can help you plan and prepare some meals.
• Headaches — Tension headaches are common with people in grief. Over-the-counter pain relievers should help.
• Tension and numbness — Feeling stressed for long periods can cause tension, aches and numbness in your extremities. Getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods and moving your body should help. If these are severe, talk with your doctor.
• Fatigue and insomnia — The physical strain of grief can make you very tired, and being unable to sleep doesn’t help. Practice good sleep hygiene by staying away from screens before bed and going to sleep at a regular time. Gentle stretching and yoga nidra recordings can be helpful.
• Cardiovascular problems — Your blood pressure or heart rate may be higher during times of grief. Some people experience arrhythmias, constriction of the blood vessels and more serious heart problems. If you’re having cardiovascular symptoms, you should see a doctor.
• Dizziness — This is another sensation that can be caused by grief. It can be dangerous if you’re in danger of falling.
• Lower immunity — When your system is tired, it’s harder to fight off germs and infections. Take your vitamins and try to make healthy choices.
• Inflammation and joint pain — Symptoms like these can be aggravated by grief. Your doctor can recommend treatments that should help.

How do I know if my grief is affecting my physical health?

Our understanding of grief has changed a lot over the years. However, it’s still nearly impossible to predict how a person will need to grieve each loss. The experience will vary between each person and each individual loss.

It’s worth noting that the mental and emotional impact of grief can be just as serious as the effects on your physical health. Emotional numbness, loneliness and hopelessness can make life seem unbearable. Some people will engage in unhealthy coping mechanisms or reckless behavior, even if it’s not characteristic of them. In cases of complicated grief, you may feel like a part of you has died. All of this can make it harder to get back to life as usual.

It’s understandable and valid that you may be feeling lonely, depressed or disconnected right now. But you don’t have to cope on your own. You deserve compassion and support from people who understand what you’re going through. 

At Lightfully, we provide higher levels of care for people who are dealing with intense grief. Our programs include an online mental health support group where our clients share what they’re processing and provide validation and encouragement. Our licensed clinicians take a person-first approach to meet people where they are, and we help our clients reconnect with a satisfying life that includes room for difficult emotions.

Do you have questions about treatments that can help with grief? Get in touch with us today.