| Did you know that crying is the fastest method to release stress hormones? Tears are composed mostly of water, salt and cortisol. |
Why does it hurt so freakin' bad?
Grief can often overwhelm us with both psychological and physical symptoms at a time when we are in a weakened state to deal with them. We are bombarded with a constant stream of thoughts and emotions, and our bodies feel like crap. We worry that the pain, sadness and inner chaos will never end.
Grieving causes distress because it hurts so intensely and we are never quite prepared for the impact it produces. To ease your mind, what follows is a breakdown of the typical psychological and physical symptoms people in distress often experience.
Common psychological reactions to traumatic events
- overwhelming sadness
- disbelief, stress, discomfort
- emotional numbing, confusion
- nightmares and other sleep disturbances
- anger, fear, moodiness, and irritability
- disinterest in maintaining good hygiene
- flashbacks
- survivor guilt
- hypervigilance ("radar" is always on), jumpiness, easily startled
- loss of hope
- social withdrawal
- increased use of alcohol and drugs
- desiring isolation from others
- increase in cortisol (a stress hormone)
- loss of appetite or desire to eat more than usual
- insomnia or sleeping too much
- feeling lethargic or exhausted most of the time
- forgetfulness
- confusion or feeling "foggy-headed"
- amplified aches and pains
- inability to concentrate
- nausea
- constipation or diarrhea
- chest pressure
- racing heart
- shortness of breath
- panic attacks
- increased anxiety
However, if your distress causes debilitating pain or thoughts of suicide, call 911 and seek emergency help immediately.
Next: How do I get it to stop?
(c)2013 Robyn M. Posson
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