Grief is something we all face at some point in life, whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a significant life change. It’s a natural process, but when grief is left unresolved, its effects can be far-reaching—impacting not just our emotional state, but our physical health too. In fact, unresolved grief is a silent weight that can burden our mind and body in ways we may not even realize.
The Silent Toll on Mental Health
When grief is not processed, it lingers in the background, silently chipping away at our emotional well-being. People often feel an overwhelming sadness or numbness, and emotions like anxiety, guilt, or anger can take over. These unresolved feelings may spiral into depression, affecting our self-esteem and the ability to connect with others. The sense of isolation can grow, leading many to withdraw from loved ones – further deepening the emotional strain.
Unresolved grief can also impair our cognitive function, where making simple decisions can feel difficult and leave us clouded in confusion. Concentration, focus, and memory can suffer, making it harder to cope with day-to-day tasks. What many don’t realize is that without addressing grief, it can become a roadblock to emotional recovery, preventing us from finding peace and moving forward.
The Physical Strain
The impact of grief is not just emotional—it’s physical too. Prolonged sadness and stress can manifest as a range of physical symptoms, from chronic fatigue to sleep disturbances and headaches. The body, caught in a continuous state of stress, has its immune system weakened, leaving us vulnerable to illness. High cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone, can lead to heart issues, digestive problems, and muscle tension, causing pain and discomfort in unexpected places.
In the end, unresolved grief can act as a barrier to living fully. But there is hope. By seeking support, whether through therapy, talking to friends, or engaging in self-care practices, healing is possible. The road to recovery may be long, but the journey of healing the mind and body is one of the most empowering things we can do for ourselves.
Upcoming Grief Seminar – “Growth through Grief”
New Mornings are holding a one-day community seminar on Saturday 29th of March called ‘Growth through Grief”. Join us for an insightful and supportive event designed for community members, grieving individuals, those supporting loved ones through loss, and health professionals. Be inspired, encouraged and educated by our professional keynote speakers, including Dr Nerrelie Cann, Clinical Psychologist Elysia Cunningham, author and mentor, Paul O’Rourke who work in our local community and champion the cause of increasing our physical and mental wellbeing. During the day you will hear stories of those amongst us with lived experience, sharing their own journey of growth through grief. Tickets are selling fast, and spaces are limited so please scan the QR code below to book your ticket or call Prue Arnot (Grief Support Co-Ordinator) on 6411 6212.