What does grief do to the brain?

Grief is a process that everyone experiences at some point in their life. The loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or even a job can trigger grief. While many of us are familiar with the sadness, anger, and pain associated with grief, in recent years, scientists have learned that the brain responds to loss much like it does any traumatic event.

Brain trauma may typically be associated with physical injury, but profound grief and the emotional trauma of loss can impact the brain, body, and mind. Researchers have begun to make a case for a view of brain trauma that would include emotional traumatic brain injury, which can occur after emotional trauma. Emotional trauma is believed to be able to cause changes in brain function.

As with any trauma, the brain responds with the stress response cycle or fight or flight response, triggering a series of responses in the body, brain, and mind. When experiencing grief, the response may be ongoing. Many people experiencing prolonged or complex grief report intense sadness, anger, guilt, worry, distress, despair, brain fog, and even an inability to carry out normal daily tasks.

The idea that grief moves through a series of steps in a particular order, per the well-known five-stage model, is unrealistic. Some people may feel that these stages resonate and reflect their experiences well, while others may experience far more intense ups and downs following a loss. Loss can also impact one’s sense of self and identity. For example, losing a spouse may change your family make-up, your identity in the family, and if you were a caretaker for an ill spouse, your identity as a caretaker might change as well. Grief varies widely, and its impacts can be far-reaching.

If you’re experiencing grief following a significant loss, the feelings of sadness, loss, pain, changed sleep, and more can be completely normal. If you continue to struggle with waves of grief that interfere with your ability to carry out important responsibilities, or if you begin to experience symptoms of depression like feelings of hopelessness or thoughts of suicide, talk with your doctor or licensed mental health professional. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-272-8255.