Whether we wish to admit it, when we grieve, our physical bodies are also affected. Here are just some of the many symptoms we may experience to differing degrees:
- Crying, crying, and crying. At times , period of intense sobbing and wailing overcome us. Buckets of tears can also come at the most inappropriate moments, which may lead to embarrassment. Even so, there are many benefits to crying. It’s a cleansing catharsis, which we really need. Please try not to restrict yourself by not crying when you need to.
Other Symptoms include:
- Dry mouth
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach aches
- Nausea
- Tightening in the chest
- Poor appetite
- Increase appetite
- Body aches, stiffness of joints and muscles
- Dizziness or faintness
- Extreme fatigue, decreased energy levels
- Exhaustion
- Inability to fall asleep at night
- Eating too much
The different levels of physical manifestations can be far-reaching. It is imperative that you see your doctor as soon as you can. He or she needs to know that you’re going through a grieving process. Have your doctor give you a complete physical checkup. They may recommend a mild anti-depressant for a short period of time to stabilize you when you need it most. Remember you are not superman. Don’t act like it. The medication may get you past the roughest times. And later you’ll see you won’t need it any longer.
Unfortunately, I have seen so many men who completely neglect their health, coupled by not participating in the grieving process. They think they are made of steel. Most won’t cry or allow themselves any outlet. These same men have succumbed to stroke, heart attack, and diabetes. They choose to go around it, under it and over it. They bypass it every way and it affects them physically.
Whether male or female do not let this happen to you. Get to the doctor and nutritionist shortly after your loved one’s death and develop a plan for yourself.
