Symptoms Of Stress From Bereavement

Symptoms of stress from bereavement are normal!

Dealing with death, and going through the process of losing a loved one, is one of those things in life that we all have to experience at some time. Although it is a very difficult and trying period, I do believe that being forewarned is forearmed.

Being aware of the particular symptoms of stress, using the coping mechanisms and having an understanding of the seven stages of healing, can prepare you for what is ahead and understand the symptoms of stress from bereavement.

You can learn to come to terms with a new stage of life!

Dealing with death, as another stage of life, can be a real opportunity for growth and positive change. But, mismanaged, it can be an impossibly difficult experience that has huge negative impacts on all the other aspects of your live.


Symptoms of Stress from Bereavement

• Lack of sleep or interrupted sleep - You lie awake for hours and are not able to fall asleep OR you wake up regularly during the night. Maybe you wake up in the early hours of the morning and are not able to go back to sleep. This leaves you feeling tired and listless for the rest of the day.
  
  
• Restlessness - You find it difficult to calm your mind from the ongoing turmoil that you are going through and are not able to “switch off”.
  
  
• Tearfulness - You might find yourself wanting to cry a lot. This is not a bad thing as crying is an outlet for emotions and built up tension. However, excessive crying is a definite sign of uncontrolled stress.
  
  
• Lack of interest in general - Those things that previously seemed important to you now seem to fall by the wayside.
  
  
• Inability to cope - Even those ordinary daily chores, like shopping and cooking etc seem like a major obstacle to overcome.
  
  
• Panic attacks or feelings of anxiety - During a time of bereavement so many unfamiliar emotions are released and sometimes you might think that you are ‘loosing it’ or that something bad might happen to you.
  
  
• Preoccupied all the time - You are so preoccupied with thoughts of your lost one that you might even start to imagine seeing or smelling them.
  
  
• Exhaustion - Exhaustion is the culmination of all the above.
  
  
• Irritability - Even your best friend, the dog, who you never shout at, might irritate you and trivial things start getting you down.

When you notice these symptoms of stress from bereavement, you are experiencing the effects of bereavement stress. These feelings are perfectly normal and, given time, love and lots of support, these things too shall pass.

If you are battling to cope with your loss or are not sure what to expect next, please contact us and we will be very happy to talk to you or suggest a suitable next step.

The 7 Stages Of Healing will make you aware of the stages of grief that are common in dealing with loss.

When dealing with grief from bereavement, it is very beneficial to include some kind of practice to help you to calm and still your mind. Meditation is excellent! And so simple to do!

Try breathing exercises to control anxiety and induce relaxation!

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Recommended Reads

On Death and Dying

Dr. Kübler-Ross explores the five grief cycle stages: denial and isolation, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Through sample interviews and conversations, she gives the reader a better understanding of how imminent death affects the patient, the professionals who serve that patient, and the patient's family, bringing hope to all who are involved.

On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss

Before her own death in 2004, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler completed On Grief and Grieving, which looks at the way we experience the process of grief.

Healing After Loss: Daily Meditations For Working Through Grief

For those who have suffered the loss of a loved one, here are strength and thoughtful words to inspire and comfort.

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