Grieving a loss can be a profound and painful process that most of us experience several times throughout our lives. Whether grieving the loss of a loved one, a home, or a job, grief is an individual process that typically involves common elements. As our mind tries to adjust to the change that loss brings, we are likely to experience emotional, mental and physical reactions that can be painful and difficult to understand.
When in the midst of this process, we may ask ourselves: Will this ever end? Why am I so tired all the time? Why am I experiencing physical symptoms like dizziness, tension, and problems with sleep and appetite? We will attempt to answer some of these questions in this article.
What Are The Stages Of Grief?
Various models have been developed to help understand the process of grief. One model that many find helpful is the Five Stages of Grief by Dr Elizabeth Kübler-Ross. This model outlines the stages as denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Although it may not capture the complexity of every person’s grief, it serves as a framework for reflecting on one’s unique experience.
The stages are not necessarily sequential and can overlap or vary in intensity. Below is a brief explanation of each stage.
| Denial | Loss can be too much for the mind to process at first, often leading to a sense of denial. People in denial may express disbelief, saying, “I just can’t believe they’re gone” or “I keep expecting to see them.” Denial allows us to pace our grief during the initial shock, giving us time to adjust to the new reality. |
| Anger | As the reality of the loss begins to sink in, feelings of frustration, helplessness, and even anger may surface. This can be a difficult stage to navigate, as it is often unclear where to direct the anger. Some may blame others for the loss, while others turn the anger inward. Regardless, these emotions are expressions of the pain and helplessness one feels when confronted by a reality they wish weren’t true. |
| Bargaining | When anger does not change the situation, a person may attempt to regain control by bargaining. Thoughts like, “What could I have done differently?” or “How can we prevent this from happening again?” are common. However, eventually, the realisation comes that nothing can change what has happened. |
| Depression | Once the reality fully sets in and the understanding that nothing can reverse the loss becomes clear, people often enter a period of deep sadness. During this stage, it is common to feel isolated, disconnected and hopeless. While painful, this stage is a necessary part of the grieving process that helps lead toward healing. |
| Acceptance | Acceptance does not mean “getting over” the loss, but rather coming to terms with it. As individuals progress through this stage, they typically find ways to live with the loss and require less time and energy to manage the emotional consequences. Although it remains difficult, one can begin moving forward. |
Does Grief Ever Go Away?
Grief evolves over time, but it does not have a definitive endpoint. The initial waves of sorrow often become less frequent and more manageable over time, but they do not completely vanish.
Most of us will continue to feel some level of sadness when reminded of what we have lost, especially during anniversaries or when encountering reminders of the loss. However, over time, the intensity tends to diminish, and individuals learn to live with the grief in a way that allows them to move forward with life.
Does Grief Make You Tired?
The emotional and mental toll of grief can be highly draining. People often feel tired and exhausted, particularly in the early stages of grief.
Even after getting sufficient rest, the energy required to cope with a loss can result in fatigue and difficulty concentrating. This can make it hard to keep up with daily tasks, such as work, chores and social activities. Tiredness during grief is also often linked to increased anxiety, as the mind remains on high alert for other potential losses, which adds to mental and physical exhaustion.
Can Grief Make You Dizzy?
Yes, the anxiety, stress and exhaustion that accompany grief can lead to physical symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and light-headedness. These symptoms often result from sleep deprivation, changes in appetite, and shallow breathing, which can be side effects of grief. While some dizziness is normal during grief, persistent dizziness should be discussed with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
How Do I Cope with Grief?
Embrace the Process
Grief is not something that can be avoided or rushed. It needs to run its course. Although it can be tempting to try to bypass the pain, this often complicates and prolongs the grieving process.
While everyone’s grief looks different, it is helpful to acknowledge that it is a process that must unfold naturally. Below are some strategies to help cope with grief.
- Self-soothing: Find ways to make yourself feel physically comfortable and safe. Sensory experiences, such as wrapping up in a warm blanket, listening to calming music, or lighting a scented candle, can create a sense of safety, making it easier to confront painful emotions.
- Self-care: Focus on eating, sleeping, and exercising as best you can. These basics will help provide the mental and physical energy necessary for coping with grief.
- Create rituals: Find ways to honour what you have lost. This might involve visiting a grave, lighting a candle, or returning to a significant location. Rituals can provide a sense of connection and continuity.
- Find support: While time alone can be helpful, spending time with loved ones can lighten the emotional load. Sharing experiences and supporting each other can ease the burden of grief.
Summary
Grief is a universal, deeply personal process that evolves over time, involving emotional, physical, and mental reactions. The Five Stages of Grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—provide a helpful framework, although the experience varies for everyone.
Grief can manifest in physical symptoms such as exhaustion, dizziness, and changes in appetite or sleep. Over time, the intensity of grief lessens, but it may never completely disappear. Coping with grief involves self-care, accepting the process, seeking support and creating meaningful rituals. While grief can be exhausting, embracing it is key to healing.
Helpful Resources
- Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler’s On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss
- HealthCentral.com: Five Stages Of Grief – Understanding the Kübler-Ross Model
