Grief can affect our physical health in many ways! The stress of grief has the ability to change our immune systems and increase inflammation in our bodies. 

Some common physical examples include: 

• fatigue 

• apetite changes (eating too much or too little)

• headaches

• naseau, upset stomach, gastrointestinal problems

• muscle tension and weakness

• body aches 

• tightness and heaviness in the chest and throat

• dizziness

• sleep disturbances (sleeping too much or too little, frequent waking, insomnia, etc.)

• and many other ways that can be quite individual (sometimes surprising forms of illness). I had things like a swollen macrimal eye gland, a rash on much of my body for 8 months, chest pain, etc.) I am quite healthy, and these were all quite abnormal for me.

The significant stress of grief often weakens our immune system with the potential of leading to more severe illness. Recognizing this can encourage us to take a more proactive approach to caring for both mind and body.