What are Common Expressions of Grief?

It is important to recognize individual expressions of grief so one can take the steps necessary for proper self-care. Emotional expressions of grief are commonly the first to come to mind: feelings of sadness and loss, anger, frustration, and guilt. But grief runs deeper and affects us as a whole. According to Peace Health, physical expressions of grief may include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, aches and pains, and other stress-related ailments.

Grief affects us socially, as well. These feelings may cause one to retreat and isolate oneself from loved ones and communities, as well as other behaviors that might be inconsistent with one’s usual conduct. Grief can also be expressed through spiritual questioning, such as grasping for a higher reason, and questions about life and death. During these times, it is just as important to reach out for support as it is to take time for yourself.

Normal Grief

Typically, when a person is experiencing a loss, they will follow a predictable pattern: first, their grief will be overwhelming, and eventually, their grief will become easier to manage. Only the passage of time and the completion of the so-called five stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance) will bring the sufferer through to the other side.

Psych Central explains that grief includes complex and sometimes overwhelming expressions, and that there is no set amount of time one can count on for their healing to take. Grief is a process, and it will take time before a new sense of normalcy is achieved.

Anticipatory Grief

In some instances, you know before a person has passed that they do not have long to live. In tragic cases like that of terminal illness or a loved one being on life support, a sort of anticipatory grief may make itself manifest. This is the anxiety and worry you’ll experience before your loved one has even passed on.

Some of these negative feelings stem from concern and fear for what your loved one is going through. Others relate more to your fear of losing them, even though you have come to terms with the inevitability of it occurring.

Anticipatory grief can occur before a death, but it unfortunately does not preclude grief that transpires after the loss actually occurs. In situations like these, it’s likely you will also have to experience so-called normal grief processes after the passing of your loved one.

Complicated Grief

Complicated grief can be misunderstood as depression or shock, but it is in fact an intense reaction to a loss that is not completely healthy. In instances of complicated grief, your mind is so overwhelmed by what has occurred that you may be bitter, numb, or feel an overwhelming desire to have your loved one back. Like with depression, daily activities may become difficult or even impossible.

Complicated grief is an attempt by your brain to distract from the emotional reality of loss. Psych Central notes that while symptoms like bitterness or anger are misdirected, the emotional mind experiences the feelings nonetheless and cannot cope effectively. Seeking help from a mental health professional can be very valuable in these situations.

Sudden Loss

A sudden loss can be traumatizing on a variety of levels. This expression of grief may be one of shock; it can make it difficult to eat, sleep, or even think clearly. Those who have experienced a sudden loss of a loved one should practice self-care and seek clarity from a mental health professional.

An unexpected death of someone you are close to is not something you should have to face alone. It’s one of life’s most complex and difficult experiences, and this sort of grief can take a substantial amount of time to work through.

Secondary Loss

A secondary loss can be just as damaging as the death of a loved one itself. This occurs when the passing of your friend or family member later leads to depression, job loss, divorce, or changes in important relationships.

Part of what makes secondary loss so troubling is the fact that those in your life may be less likely to notice or reach out to you than they were after the passing of your loved one. Oftentimes, the focus on your needs ends soon after a funeral. If you continue to struggle and suffer subsequent traumas like those outlined above, you may need to seek assistance from loved ones or a therapist so get the help you need.

Anniversary Grief

It’s very common to experience grief each year on the anniversary of a loved one’s passing. This can also occur on their birthday or other significant milestone dates in their lives, or in your relationship. Make sure those around you are aware of these anniversaries so they can fully support you as you navigate the tricky waters of re-emergent grief each year.

Be prepared that your anniversary grief may change from year to year. Don’t expect it to always manifest in the same ways. Be patient with yourself as you work through your loss. Things will get better, but there will always be moments in time when you are once again overcome by what you have lost.

Dealing with Expressions of Grief

Titan Casket is dedicated to providing you with all the answers you need when it comes to planning a funeral and navigating your grief. We can also help you when it comes to buying a casket.

We are your trusted ally in planning the funeral you want at an affordable, fair price. Contact us via our chat window or here on our contact page to get started.

via Titan Casket - Your Guide to Funeral Planning https://titancasket.com/blogs/funeral-guides-and-more/expressions-of-grief