IDENTIFYING GRIEF

Within our 108 square miles of Antigua and Barbuda it may seem so much easier to recognize individuals we know at a faster rate than larger territories. A person could struggle with grief and loss yet find unhealthy coping strategies to deal with their suppressed thoughts and feelings. Grief is a complex and multifaceted emotional response to loss, particularly the loss of someone or something to which a person has formed a bond. Understanding and identifying grief can help individuals navigate through it more effectively. National Grief Awareness Day is observed annually on 30th August, with this in mind, here are some key aspects and signs to help identify grief.

Emotional signs like sadness could be a telltale sign for identifying grief. Profound feelings of sadness are common and can come in waves. Another aspect is feelings of anger. Feelings of anger or frustration can sometimes be directed at oneself, others, or even the deceased. Grief is not only limited to the loss of an individual who has passed on. It can be as other aspects such as job loss, a broken relationship or even loss of self (one’s spiritual essence or purpose for living). People experiencing feelings of guilt can at times be as an internal manifestation, regret or guilt over things left unsaid or undone, or over feeling relieved that the suffering of a loved one has ended.

Another aspect of grief can be anxiety, whereby, increased anxiety about the future or fear of being alone may become worrisome for those struggling with grief. Some may experience shock and disbelief, and this could pose some difficulty accepting the reality of the loss, especially initially. Other facets of grief could also include the feeling that life has lost its meaning or purpose.

Grief also exhibits some physical signs, like fatigue, where individuals display lack of energy and/or persistent tiredness. Some other areas are sleep disturbances or excessive sleep, loss or changes with appetite, aches, headaches or even stomach issues.

Cognitively, people usually display some problem areas such as difficulty remembering things, concentrating, or making decisions. Individuals usually struggle with preoccupied thinking relating to the loss of the deceased or circumstance of the loss. Behaviorally, some may tend to withdraw by avoiding
social activities or become restless and isolated. There are also instances whereby the grieving person could even display ritualistic behaviors that were significant to either the deceased or the relationship that was lost.

Grief often progresses through several stages, although not everyone experiences all stages or in a linear order. The five stages of grief are: Denial: Refusing to believe the loss has occurred. Anger: Feeling angry about the loss and the unfairness of it. Bargaining: Trying to negotiate a way out of the loss (often through thoughts like “If only…”). Depression: Deep sorrow and mourning the loss. Acceptance: Coming to terms with the loss and finding a way to move forward.

Coping with grief can be better by having support systems. Leaning on friends, family, or support groups can be a relief through meaningful interactions and human bonding. Seeking Professional help, self-care and expressing one’s emotions remain dynamic ways to cope with grief and loss. Understanding these signs and stages can help individuals recognize grief in themselves and others, facilitating better support and coping mechanisms.