The effects of grief and bereavement on mental health

Grief is among the most intense human experiences that every person feels at some point. Life-altering situations, like the passing of a loved one, a breakup or any other significant life event, may affect our mental health significantly.

There's an intimate connection between grief and mental health. It's important to note that grief is a natural response to any significant loss in a person's life, and it may develop into depression in some cases.

Dealing with grief is challenging task, as it demands patience, support systems and self-compassion.

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What is the connection between grief and mental health?

We all experience bereavement, and the loss can be unique for everyone. (Image via Pexels/Pavel Danilyuk)

Grief and mental health disorders like depression usually coexist. Whenever a person faces significant loss, it's natural to feel very sad, but if it persists for a prolonged period, it may lead to depression.

A single point of difference between these conditions is that the former typically reduces over time, while depression deepens and persists as time passes. If you or a loved one is battling with intense and complex emotions, it's very important to be aware of the signs and reach out for professional help.

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Grief and depression: The intense effects of loss

The duration of depressive symptoms are more chronic in nature. (Image via Pexels/Pavel Danilyuk)

This is a very distinct type of depression that evolves out of great loss. This type can be particularly difficult to distinguish from normal bereavement, as both of them share feelings of sadness, loneliness and disparity. The amount of time and levels of intensity is what set them apart.

Grief-related depression is highly enduring and intense than the usual grief we may face. A constant decline in mood, fluctuations in appetite, changes in sleep cycles and feelings of extensive hopelessness are all symptoms of depression, even after the grieving period.

If you have recently found a loved one or yourself experiencing these symptoms beyond what's normal, it may be indicative of the condition.

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Coping and processing feelings of loss

Certain rituals can help us connected. (Image via Pexels/Karolina Grabowska)

Dealing with intense emotions can be particularly difficult. However, there are ways to manage it, starting with awareness and acknowledgement. Acknowledge as well as embrace your emotions. It's completely a natural phenomenon to go through sadness, anger and frustration at a time of great loss.

Share your burden with loved ones, friends or a therapist. Don't try to carry everything by yourself. You may end up emotionally exhausted and lonely. Conversing about your loss may provide emotional healing.

Start keeping your emotional as well as physical well-being at the forefront of your life. Prioritize healthy eating, regular exercise and a healthy sleep cycle.

Grief is a very personal and deep-rooted experience. There isn't a particular way a person should grieve, so embrace your feelings, and allow yourself to heal from within.

While there are many theories about this complex emotion, like the Five Stages of Grieving, it can's possibly be understood by a single theory.

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If this form of depression, take a while to leave and disrupts your everyday functioning. Reach out to a professional who may offer necessary interventions and care. Always know that inner healing is unique to everyone of us, and there isn't a particular way to grieve.

Being willing to seek care is strength and not a sign of weakness. So, hold tight, for the sun is just at the horizon. Sometimes we have to take extra effort to see the sun, but, for sure, the setting sun is the most glorious.

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Janvi Kapur is a counselor with a Master's degree in applied psychology with a specialization in clinical psychology.

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