The immune system is weakened, making the grieving person more prone to illness. Many hospitals, hospices and funeral directors now offer help for family members in grief. A person suffering a loss may not have the traditional support of an extended family or a religious community. Services may include counseling before and after a death, practical help with daily living and referrals to community programs. The intense pain drains energy, with upsurges of grief often coming in waves.
People describe feeling crazy.
They need a lot of reassurance that what they're going through is normal. Taking a daily walk also helps. Exercise makes us feel like we're in charge of something when so many other things can be out of control. It's like taking a baby step toward getting through the process. As the reality of the loss sets in, emotional and physical symptoms usually increase.