FAQs About Grief

Grief profoundly impacts our mind, body and spirit in ways that can feel debilitating at times. The exhaustion, both physical and mental, that comes with grieving is like nothing else. You are not alone in these experiences.

When we lose someone precious to us, our entire world has shifted in a seismic way. Our sense of safety, purpose and reality is shaken to the core. It's nearly impossible for the mind and body to function normally under that magnitude of stress and sadness.
 

Insomnia and disturbances in sleep patterns are among the most prevalent issues grievers face. The mind races with thoughts, regrets, memories and an overwhelming sense of anxiety about how life will proceed. This makes it difficult to relax enough for restorative sleep.
 

Concentration and focus also understandably suffer. Grief demands so much emotional energy that basic cognitive tasks like reading, working or even following a TV show can feel impossible some days. The mind is simply too preoccupied.
 

Decision making becomes complicated as we begin questioning ourselves and our judgment more in the haze of grief. Even small, daily choices can feel laden with confusion and doubt without our usual mental clarity.
 

Please have compassion for what you're experiencing. These are normal, anticipated reactions to trauma and loss. With time, Self-care, support systems and processing the grief, the mental fogginess should lift, even if slowly.
 

In the meantime, go easy on yourself. Let others help where they can. Take life one step at a time without expectations. Know that you aren't "going crazy" - this is just your mind's way of coping with something utterly destabilizing. Concentration, sleep and decision-making abilities should return. Be patient and gentle with yourself through this tremendously difficult transition.