Common Reactions to Grief

Behavioral reactions: Crying Preoccupation Apathy regarding activities Decreased activity Detachment from surroundings Disorientation to time and place Withdrawal from friends Seeking solitude Emotional reactions: Shock Disbelief Numbness Confusion Sadness/depression Guilt Yearning/loneliness Fears/anxiety Feeling of being lost Anger

Physical and mental reactions: Sleep disturbances/dreams Weight and appetite changes Weakness and fatigue Deep sighing Decreased resistance to illness Restlessness/impatience Rapid heart beat Increased blood pressure Tightness in chest Difficulty swallowing Pit in stomach Decision-making impaired Concentration difficulties Forgetfulness Spiritual reactions: Re-evaluation of beliefs Anger at God Distance/closeness with God Difficulty attending place of worship