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Physical Symptoms of Grief

In addition to the emotional side of grief, there are physical symptoms including:

• insomnia or excessive sleep
• loss of appetite
• stomach aches, gastrointestinal disturbances,
• headaches
• exhaustion/fatigue
• inability to function
• muscle tenseness
• depression

Grief is exhausting and taking care of your health is important:

• Try to eat regular, nourishing meals. If meals are too difficult, have nourishing food available to snack on rather than chips and candy.
• Rest is important. Try to develop bedtime routines. If you hare having a difficult time sleeping, try a glass of warm milk, play soft music to soothe your thoughts, or try relaxation exercises.
• Develop a manageable exercise routine and stay with it. Even when you don't feel like exercising, it will make you feel better.
• Meditation, prayer, or yoga may help you get the rest and find the peace you need.
• Crying is good.
• Be careful not to use alcohol, drugs, or tranquilizers. These will only mask the pain and could lead to long-term problems including dysfunctional grieving .

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