Grief is a natural response to loss. We often associate grief with the loss of someone we love, but it can also come from losing a job, the end of a relationship, or dramatic life transitions. It’s something that just about everyone experiences at some point in life, and it isn’t easy for anyone.
The signs and symptoms most commonly associated with grief include difficult emotions, such as sadness and anger, but there are behavioral and physical changes that can take place as well. Grief can have a profound effect on one’s cognitive processes, such as memory, and this can make it difficult to get on with daily life.
Let’s learn more about how the brain changes while grieving and how grief can affect memory and cognitive processes. We’ll also take a look at some steps you can take to get through this difficult process.
Attention and Concentration
When a person is grieving, their attention and concentration levels can suffer. Grief can make it extremely difficult to pay attention, concentrate, or focus on tasks. People who are grieving and struggling with things that require sustained attention might even complain of their brain feeling foggy.
Communication
Grief can make it more difficult to communicate with others effectively. When your brain isn’t working at full capacity, it might be harder to find the right words to express yourself. This can sometimes have an isolating effect and put strain on relationships, which are important for getting through the grieving process.
Decision-Making
Grieving often involves a lot of intense emotions. These strong emotions can sometimes make it difficult to make decisions. It can be especially hard to think through things that require a rational, considered approach.
Memory Loss
Memories are also impacted by grief. When someone is grieving, their mind might be fixated on the loss and unable to focus on much else. This can make it more difficult to keep up with daily tasks and things they need to remember.
How to Move Forward
There isn’t a right or wrong way to grieve. Each person has to go through the grieving process according to their own terms and on their own time. When you’re ready, there are certain lifestyle changes you can make that can put you back on course. Here are a few to try out.
Set SMART Goals
Setting goals for yourself can be a great way for you to slowly get back to your new normal. SMART goals are those that are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. Goals with these characteristics are much more effective, and accomplishing just one will give you a boost of momentum.
Create and Stick to a Routine
Grief can throw what used to be your normal schedule and routine completely out of whack. You can get back into the swing of things by creating a new routine. The external structure provided by a schedule can help provide structure for your body and mind.
Use Tools
Don’t be afraid to use helpful tools. Make to-do lists, use a wall calendar, or keep track of all of your appointments and reminders in a planner. It can be difficult to adjust back to your life after a big change. These tools can help you keep track of everything so you aren’t expected to remember everything on your own.
Seek Professional Guidance
Grief can have a significant impact on a person’s brain, memory, and cognitive processes. Thankfully, for most individuals, the changes that occur are only temporary, especially with the right coping mechanisms.
If the signs and symptoms of your grief aren’t getting any better over time, it’s important to consider professional help. Your feelings are normal and valid, but it’s important to process your emotions so you can start healing and moving forward again. Reach out today to learn more about how grief therapy and working with a mental health professional can benefit you.
