Title: Grief and loss - the effects of grief and how to deal with it | healthdirect
Headings: Grief and loss
Grief and loss
Key facts
On this page
What are grief and loss?
Are there different types of grief and loss?
What are the effects of grief?
Emotions
Physical health
Spiritual life
Post-traumatic growth
Complicated grief and depression
When should I seek help for my grief?
How can I cope with grief?
Allow yourself to grieve
Live one day at a time
Seek help
Stay connected
Create positive memories
Look after your health
Surviving anniversaries
How can I support a grieving loved one?
Initiate contact
Listen
Do something together
Practical help
Be aware
Other questions you might have
How long does grief last?
How do I move on?
Resources and support
Other languages

Content: Other questions you might have
Related information on Australian websites
Resources and support
What are grief and loss? Grief is the natural emotional response to the loss of someone close, such as a family member or friend. Grief can also occur after a serious illness, a divorce or other significant losses. Grief often involves intense sadness, and sometimes feelings of shock, numbness or even denial and anger. For most people, healing occurs with time. Grief is a process or journey that affects everyone differently. It can be exhausting and emotionally draining, making it hard to do simple things or even leave the house. Some people cope by becoming more active. Grief has no set pattern. It is expressed differently across different cultures.