Loss of a Loved One and the Impact of Bereavement

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Loss of a Loved One
Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things people experience. Sometimes it hurts so badly that someone may see no need to live anymore. Everyone who has lost a loved one understands the pain that comes with it, even though bereavement is an inevitable part of life. Whether it is a close friend, a parent, a child, a partner, a spouse, or a relative, the death of a loved one can feel overwhelming (Murray, 2015). It comes with waves of intense and very difficult emotions, ranging from deep sorrow, emptiness and despair to shock, guilt, numbness, or regret (Keyes et al., 2014). One might rage at the circumstances of their loved one’s death, blaming themselves, God or physicians. They might even feel in denial, finding it difficult to accept that the person is gone or struggling to cope with the grief.
Most bereaved individuals are subjected to emotional and psychological problems, including stress, anxiety and depression (Seiler et al., 2020). Coming out of these experiences takes time-based on the relationship with the dead. Loss of a loved one is not limited to emotional and mental responses. It can also trigger physical reactions such as weight and appetite changes, sleeping difficulty, pains and aches, and an impaired immune system, resulting in other health problems (Seiler et al., 2020). Sometimes, life may never be the same after losing a loved one. Because bereavement comes with deep sorrow and emotional reactions, individuals affected should realize appropriate coping methods to improve their health and well-being (Murray, 2015). Interventions should encourage the bereaved to look at the future with hope and optimism while learning to move forward with their lives.
Impact of Bereavement on Individual, Community and Social Level
Losing a loved one is considered the most stressful and most severe traumatic experience. It places individuals at risk of emotional, mental and physical health problems. According to Keyes et al. (2014) death of a loved one is associated with heightened vulnerability to the onset of common psychiatric disorders, including major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and panic disorder. Studies have shown that losing a loved one engenders separation distress, with a yearning for the person, which could potentially trigger the onset of mood or anxiety disorder (Keyes et al., 2014).
Bereavement of a loved one is usually succeeded by more emotional distress and adjustment problems, as well as greater pain, sleep problems, fatigue, and depression (Murray, 2015). Immediately after death, those left behind often feel shocked, numb and in denial, especially if the death was sudden (Seiler et al., 2020). When they begin understanding the reality of death, they can experience intense sadness, loneliness and anger or guilt. The feelings can be constant, painful and overwhelming. Emotionally, individuals may have difficulty concentrating or enjoying their daily activities. They might drink, abuse drugs, or have suicidal thoughts.
Physically, grief can be exhausting, leading to a weak immune system. This makes individuals vulnerable to colds and other i...