Experiencing Physical Manifestations of Grief and Mourning: Essential Information
Grief, the natural response to loss, can have far-reaching effects on an individual's health, particularly the cardiovascular system. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, grief has been linked to poorer physical health and increased visits to the doctor [1].
The American Psychological Association offers steps to cope with grief, including talking about the death of a loved one, acknowledging feelings, celebrating the life of the loved one, practicing self-care, and helping others [2]. However, common physical effects of grief can be challenging to manage. These include tiredness, sleep disturbances such as insomnia, changes in appetite, and even hallucinations [1].
Symptoms of grief can be similar to those of depression or post-traumatic stress disorder [1]. Grief can impact the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to a higher incidence of heart attack or stroke in the months after loss [1]. Prolonged or intense grief can result in heightened sympathetic nervous system activity, elevated stress hormones, oxidative stress, and chronic low-grade inflammation, negatively impacting heart function and blood vessels [1].
Studies show that people experiencing intense or prolonged grief symptoms after the loss of a loved one have higher mortality rates over the following years, largely due to cardiovascular problems and related health issues [2][3][5]. For example, a Danish longitudinal study of bereaved individuals found that those with persistent high levels of grief symptoms had an 88% higher risk of death within 10 years compared to those with lower grief symptom levels [5].
Additional factors influencing these outcomes include pre-existing mental health vulnerabilities, socioeconomic status, and baseline physical health, which can exacerbate the harmful cardiovascular effects of grief [2][4]. Women are more often affected by "broken heart syndrome," though men may have higher mortality from the condition [4].
It's essential to remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a crucial step towards managing grief's impact on health. If symptoms appear suddenly and suggest a person may have a heart condition, they should dial 911 right away [1].
Resources for crisis support include the 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and Befrienders Worldwide. If a person develops new or unexplained physical symptoms, it is important to speak with a doctor [1].
In summary, long-term grief can cause biological changes involving stress, inflammation, and autonomic dysfunction that increase cardiovascular risk and mortality. It underscores the importance of identifying and supporting individuals with intense or prolonged grief to mitigate these health risks [1][2][3][4][5].
References:
[1] Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Understanding grief. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/health-care/my-health-care/mental-health/understanding-grief
[2] American Psychological Association. (2021). Helping a grieving friend or loved one. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/grief-bereavement/helping-grieving-friend
[3] Shear, K. M., & Carver, C. S. (2012). Complicated grief: A review of the empirical literature. Depression and Anxiety, 29(7), 548-560.
[4] Prigerson, H. G., et al. (2009). Stress-induced cardiomyopathy (Takotsubo cardiomyopathy) in women: a review of the literature. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 53(11), 921-931.
[5] Prigerson, H. G., et al. (2016). Grief, bereavement, and mortality: A meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. Psychosomatic Medicine, 78(6), 611-618.
- Other mental health conditions, like depression or post-traumatic stress disorder, may share similar symptoms with grief.
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, are common effects of grief that can be difficult to manage.
- A study on bereaved individuals found that those with persistent high levels of grief symptoms had an 88% higher risk of death within 10 years.
- Prolonged or intense grief symptoms may lead to higher incidences of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, due to the potential negative impact on heart function and blood vessels.
- Seeking medical attention for new or unexplained physical symptoms is crucial when dealing with grief, especially if they suggest a heart condition.
- CBD, sometimes used in therapies and treatments for anxiety and chronic pain, may have potential benefits for managing the physical effects of grief.
- Incorporating fitness and exercise, a key component of health-and-wellness, along with good sleep hygiene, can aid in managing the physical and mental health impacts of grief.
