Grief - What's Normal?

Most people feel confused by their grief when they experience the death of a loved one for the first time. They wonder whether the intensity of their grief is normal. Different people react to grief and the healing process differently.

The healing process could be a short one or an extended period depending on the emotional quotient of the person. Some people remain composed through the grieving period while others suffer emotional outbursts or even cry. There is no yardstick for normal and not normal when it comes to grief. Some common symptoms of grief include:

Physical Symptoms

• Dryness of mouth
• Dry skin
• Nausea for food
• Binging on food
• Loss of sleep
• Fatigue
• Loss of sense of time and date
• Inability to concentrate

Emotional Symptoms

• Loss of a sense of reality when everything around appears unreal.
• A feeling of being isolated and detached from others.
• Loss of a desire to live life.
• A feeling of frustration that the loved one is not with you.
• Anger, guilt, and helplessness about one’s inability save the loved one’s life.
• Depression.
• A shock that manifests in numbness of mind and body.
• A feeling of relief if the loved one’s suffering during a serious illness was unbearable.

Most people would display some or the other of above symptoms during the grieving period. As every person has a different personality, the intensity of these symptoms too will differ. Most people will revert to their normal routine and behavior after a short period of grief. If these symptoms linger for a longer period, it is useful to seek help by discussing your emotions with someone close to you or consulting a grief counselor.

If you want to know more about our cremation services, we are at your service at Nutmeg State Cremation Society or through our contact us form.