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What Is Grief?

Grief is the emotional, physical, cognitive and social response to loss.

​People often experience a wide range of reactions following a loss, including sadness, anger, guilt, anxiety, relief, numbness, confusion and even moments of happiness.

Many people are surprised to learn that grief can affect every area of life, including:

• Emotions
• Physical health
• Relationships
• Sleep
• Concentration
• Work and study
• Daily routines
• Motivation
• Mental wellbeing

Grief is not a sign of weakness. It is a reflection of the significance of the loss and the connection that existed.

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Emotional Symptoms of Grief

Shock and Disbelief
In the immediate aftermath of a loss, it may feel difficult to accept what has happened.
Some people describe feeling numb or disconnected, while others struggle to believe the loss is real.
Shock can be a normal protective response that gives the mind time to gradually process difficult information.

Sadness
Sadness is one of the most commonly recognised grief responses.
People may experience:

• Tearfulness
• Loneliness
• Emotional pain
• Feelings of emptiness
• Missing the person who has died

The intensity of sadness often changes over time and may come in waves.

Anger
Grief can sometimes be accompanied by anger.
People may feel angry at:

• The situation
• Medical professionals
• Family members
• Themselves
• The person who has died
• Life circumstances

Anger is a common and normal part of many grief experiences.

Guilt
Many people experience thoughts such as:

• "I should have done more."
• "I wish I had said something different."
• "What if I had noticed sooner?"

Guilt is particularly common following sudden or unexpected losses, but it can also occur after long illnesses or caregiving experiences.

Anxiety and Fear
Loss can create uncertainty and change.
Some people become concerned about:

• The future
• Financial stability
• Their own health
• The wellbeing of family members
• Managing new responsibilities

These concerns may contribute to increased anxiety during the grieving process.

Emotional Numbness
Not everyone experiences intense emotions immediately.
Some individuals feel emotionally flat, disconnected or unable to access their feelings.
This does not mean they are grieving incorrectly. Emotional numbness can be a normal response to significant loss.

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Physical Symptoms of Grief

Many people are surprised to discover that grief can affect the body as well as the mind.
Common physical symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Exhaustion
• Headaches
• Muscle tension
• Reduced energy
• Nausea
• Changes in appetite
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased susceptibility to illness

These symptoms often improve gradually over time, although it is important to seek medical advice if concerns persist.

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Understanding Grief Exhaustion

Grief can be exhausting.
The emotional effort involved in processing loss, managing practical responsibilities and adjusting to life changes often places significant demands on the body and mind.
People experiencing grief exhaustion may notice:

• Extreme tiredness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Reduced motivation
• Brain fog
• Increased emotional sensitivity
• Difficulty making decisions

Many people benefit from prioritising rest, maintaining routines and accepting support during this period.

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Common Cognitive Symptoms of Grief

Grief can affect thinking and memory.
People may experience:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Forgetfulness
• Confusion
• Reduced attention span
• Difficulty making decisions
• Replaying memories or events repeatedly

These experiences are often temporary and can improve as the grieving process progresses.

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Grief in Children

Children experience grief differently from adults.
Their understanding of death and loss depends on their age, developmental stage and previous experiences.
Common grief responses in children may include:

• Increased clinginess
• Sleep difficulties
• Changes in behaviour
• Emotional outbursts
• Withdrawal
• Regression in skills
• Difficulties concentrating
• Increased anxiety
• Repeated questions about the loss

Children often move in and out of grief, sometimes appearing upset one moment and playful the next.
This does not mean they are unaffected by the loss. Rather, it reflects how children process emotions differently from adults.

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Grief in Autistic Individuals

Autistic individuals may experience grief in ways that differ from common expectations.
Possible responses may include:

• Increased anxiety
• Increased stimming
• Greater reliance on routines
• Emotional withdrawal
• Behavioural changes
• Delayed grief responses
• Difficulty expressing emotions verbally
• Regression in daily living skills

Support should be tailored to the individual's communication style, sensory needs and preferred ways of processing emotions.

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The Stages of Grief

Many people are familiar with the five stages of grief:

• Denial
• Anger
• Bargaining
• Depression
• Acceptance

While these stages can provide a helpful framework, grief rarely follows a predictable sequence.
People may move back and forth between different emotions, experience multiple emotions at once or experience emotions not included in the model.
​
There is no correct way to grieve.

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What Can Trigger Grief?

Grief can be triggered unexpectedly, even years after a loss.
Common triggers include:

• Birthdays
• Anniversaries
• Holidays
• Special occasions
• Photographs
• Music
• Smells
• Familiar places
• Significant life events

Experiencing grief triggers does not mean you are moving backwards. They are a normal part of the grieving process.

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Coping with Grief

Although grief cannot be rushed or fixed, there are strategies that many people find helpful.

Seek Support
Talk with trusted friends, family members or professionals who can provide emotional support.

Acknowledge Your Feelings
Allow yourself to experience emotions without judgement.

Maintain Basic Routines
Simple routines around sleep, meals and daily activities can provide stability during difficult times.

Prioritise Physical Health
Adequate sleep, hydration, movement and nutrition can help support overall wellbeing.

Honour the Relationship
Many people find comfort in sharing memories, creating rituals or finding meaningful ways to remember their loved one.

Accept Help
Practical support from others can reduce stress and allow more space for healing.

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Supporting Someone Who Is Grieving

If someone you know is grieving, your presence can be more valuable than finding the perfect words.
Helpful approaches include:

• Listening without judgement
• Offering practical assistance
• Checking in regularly
• Acknowledging the loss
• Allowing them to share memories

Comments such as "I'm here for you" or "Would you like to talk about them?" are often more supportive than trying to provide solutions.

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When Should You Seek Professional Support?

Grief is a normal response to loss, but professional support may be beneficial if:

• Grief feels overwhelming
• Daily functioning is significantly affected
• Sleep difficulties persist
• Anxiety becomes difficult to manage
• Depression symptoms develop
• You feel isolated or unsupported
• You are concerned about your wellbeing

Counsellors, Psychologists and other healthcare professionals can provide support, coping strategies and a safe space to process grief.

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Moving Forward While Carrying Grief

Grief does not have a finish line.

Over time, many people find that the intensity of grief softens and they become better able to engage in daily life while continuing to honour the significance of their loss.

Healing does not mean forgetting. It means learning how to carry the loss while continuing to live, connect and find meaning in life again.

Everyone's grief journey is different, and it is important to approach yourself and others with compassion, patience and understanding throughout the process.

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Your feedback helps us continue to provide support and information that benefits our community.
​Stay updated with our latest resources and tips by liking us on Facebook!

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Explore Home Therapy Packs
Our guides provide practical strategies to support children facing these challenges. To further enhance your approach, consider our Home Therapy Packs, designed to engage children and improve focus at home.
Explore Home Therapy Packs

Have a question? or need more information

Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us a message

Frequently Asked Questions - Common Symptoms of Grief

What is grief?
Grief is a natural emotional response to loss. While grief is commonly associated with the death of a loved one, people may also experience grief following relationship breakdowns, illness, disability, loss of independence, job loss or other significant life changes.

What are the common symptoms of grief?
Grief can affect people emotionally, physically, mentally and socially.
Common symptoms may include:

• Sadness
• Shock and disbelief
• Anger
• Guilt
• Anxiety
• Loneliness
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep disturbances
• Changes in appetite

Everyone experiences grief differently.

What are the physical symptoms of grief?
Grief can affect the body as well as emotions.
Physical symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle tension
• Nausea
• Changes in appetite
• Sleep difficulties
• Reduced energy levels
• Increased susceptibility to illness

What is grief exhaustion?
Grief exhaustion refers to the physical and emotional fatigue that can occur following a significant loss. The emotional effort involved in processing grief can affect concentration, motivation, sleep and daily functioning.

How long do the early stages of grief last?
There is no fixed timeline for grief. The intensity of grief often changes over time, but each person's experience is unique. Some people notice gradual changes over months, while others experience waves of grief for many years.

What are the stages of grief?
Many people are familiar with the five stages of grief:

• Denial
• Anger
• Bargaining
• Depression
• Acceptance

However, grief is rarely experienced in a predictable order. People may move between emotions in different ways and at different times.

What is the hardest stage of grief?
There is no universally hardest stage of grief. Different people find different aspects of grief challenging depending on their circumstances, support systems and relationship with the person or situation they have lost.

When is grief usually the most intense?
For many people, grief feels most intense in the days, weeks and months following a loss. Significant dates such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and family events may also trigger strong emotions.

Can grief change a person?
Yes. Grief can influence how people view themselves, their relationships and the world around them. Many people describe changes in priorities, values and perspectives following significant loss.

What triggers grief?
Common grief triggers may include:

• Anniversaries
• Birthdays
• Holidays
• Familiar places
• Music
• Photographs
• Smells
• Special occasions

Triggers can occur unexpectedly and often become less overwhelming over time.

Is it normal to feel numb after a loss?
Yes. Some people experience emotional numbness, shock or disbelief following a significant loss. This can be a normal part of the grieving process.

Can grief affect memory and concentration?
Yes. Many people notice difficulties with concentration, memory, decision-making and mental clarity while grieving. These experiences are often referred to as "grief brain" or "grief fog."

Can grief affect mental health?
Yes. Grief can affect mood, anxiety levels, sleep, concentration and overall wellbeing. While grief itself is a normal response to loss, some people may benefit from additional support if they are struggling.

What does unhealthy or complicated grief look like?
Complicated grief may involve:

• Persistent intense grief that does not ease over time
• Difficulty accepting the loss
• Extreme avoidance of reminders
• Ongoing inability to participate in daily life
• Significant distress affecting wellbeing

Professional support may be beneficial if grief feels overwhelming or persistent.

How do I know if I am stuck in grief?
Grief does not have a timeline. However, it may be helpful to seek support if grief continues to significantly interfere with daily functioning, relationships, work, education or overall wellbeing.

How can I cope when grief feels overwhelming?
Helpful strategies may include:

• Talking to trusted people
• Seeking professional support
• Maintaining routines
• Prioritising sleep and nutrition
• Participating in meaningful activities
• Allowing yourself to experience emotions without judgement

What should I avoid doing when grieving?
There is no right or wrong way to grieve. However, avoiding all support, isolating yourself completely or relying on unhealthy coping strategies may make grief more difficult to manage.

What should I say to someone who is grieving?
Helpful responses may include:

• "I'm here for you."
• "I'm thinking of you."
• "Would you like to talk about them?"
• "How can I support you?"

Often, simply listening and being present is more valuable than trying to find the perfect words.

What should I avoid saying to someone who is grieving?
Comments such as:

• "Everything happens for a reason."
• "They're in a better place."
• "At least they lived a long life."
• "You should be over it by now."

may feel invalidating to some people. Listening with empathy is often more helpful.

How do children experience grief?
Children may express grief differently from adults.
Common signs may include:

• Changes in behaviour
• Increased clinginess
• Sleep difficulties
• Regression in skills
• Emotional outbursts
• Withdrawal
• Repeated questions about the loss

Children often revisit grief as they mature and develop a greater understanding of loss.

How might autistic individuals experience grief differently?
Autistic individuals may experience grief in ways that differ from common expectations.
Possible responses may include:

• Increased anxiety
• Changes in routines
• Increased stimming
• Emotional withdrawal
• Delayed grief responses
• Difficulty expressing emotions verbally

Support should be individualised to the person's communication style and needs.

Is it normal to experience moments of happiness while grieving?
Yes. Experiencing moments of laughter, joy or connection does not mean you have forgotten your loved one or that your grief is less meaningful.
​
When should I seek professional support for grief?
It may be beneficial to seek support if:

• Grief feels overwhelming
• Daily functioning is significantly affected
• You feel isolated or unsupported
• Sleep difficulties persist
• Anxiety or depression symptoms develop
• You are concerned about your wellbeing

Counsellors, Psychologists and other healthcare professionals can provide support during the grieving process.

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Related Resources

​Parent & Family Wellbeing

• Managing Fatigue and Energy Levels as a Parent
• How to Become an Emotion Coach for Your Child
• Co-Regulating with Your Child: Foundation Skills for Self-Regulation

Emotional Regulation & Mental Health

• Emotional Regulation: What Causes Emotional Dysregulation?
• Emotional Regulation Strategies for Children​​
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Children: A Parent's Guide
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Children with ASD & ADHD

Behaviour & Support

• Positive Behaviour Support Hub
• Behaviour Support for Emotional Regulation

Autism & Neurodiversity

• Autism Support Hub
• Early Signs of Autism
• Autism Early Intervention Without a Diagnosis​

​Professional Supports

• Counselling Services
• Psychology Assessments
• Occupational Therapy Perth & Mandurah

Accessing our Perth services

Let's Work Together

​Referrals to Belong Health
We are Medicare and Private Health fund registered for Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology.

EPC/Team care arrangements/Chronic disease (CDM) or GP management plans and self-referrals are all acceptable.

WA NDIS Registered Provider  

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Medicare
You can get a referral from your/your child’s GP for OT on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan this gives you 5 sessions for OT per calendar year with a $53 rebate available on each session or a Helping Children with Autism/PDD/ or an eligible disability package (20 sessions between allied health professionals, as set up by a Paediatrician/Psychiatrist) which gives your child under 16 years a $75 rebate per session for the 20 sessions, you can use up to 10 sessions per Health Professional (up to 10 for OT) and you will need a separate referral letter from your child’s Paediatrician for each Allied Health Professional you are seeking services from. 

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Private Health
Your Private Health fund may cover up to 75% of the cost of OT sessions if this is included in your cover, be sure to call them or check your policy for details.

No referral or self referral
You do not require a referral for accessing OT

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NDIS Registered Provider
We are an NDIS Registered Provider
Whether you or your child have NDIS funding that is NDIS Managed, Third Party Plan Managed or you are Self-Managing your funds, you are able to use your funding to cover the full cost of therapy services plus travel costs. You will need provide us with your/your child’s NDIS number and plan details ahead of your first session. Once you have booked a session or contacted us, our team will be in touch to discuss our service agreement and provide you with our services price list. 

13 Littleton st, Falcon

Phone: 08 9586 3934

EMAIL US

OFFICE HOURS:         MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30am - 4:30pm

BELONG HEALTH'S Paediatric Occupational Therapy SERVICES FOR Perth region

A: Alexander Heights, Alfred Cove, Applecross, Applecross North, Ardross, Armadale, Ascot, Ashby, Ashfield, Attadale, Atwell, Aubin Grove, Aveley
B: Balcatta, Balga, Ballajura, Banjup, Banksia Grove, Baskerville, Bassendean, Bateman, Bayswater, Beaconsfield, Beckenham, Bedford, Bedfordale, Beechboro, Beeliar, Beldon, Belhus, Bellevue, Belmont, Bennett Springs, Bentley, Bibra Lake, Bicton, Booragoon, Boya, Brabham, Brentwood, Brigadoon, Broadway Nedlands, Brookdale, Bull Creek, Burns Beach, Burswood, Bushmead, Butler
C: Canning Vale, Cannington, Carabooda, Carine, Carlisle, Carramar, Caversham, Champion Lakes, Churchlands, City Beach, Claremont, Clarkson, Cloverdale, Cockburn Central, Como, Connolly, Coogee, Coolbellup, Coolbinia, Cottesloe, Craigie, Crawley, Currambine
D: Daglish, Dalkeith, Darch, Darlington, Dayton, Dianella, Dog Swamp, Doubleview, Duncraig
E: East Cannington, East Fremantle, East Perth, East Victoria Park, Eden Hill, Edgewater, Ellenbrook, Embleton
F: Ferndale, Floreat, Forrestdale, Forrestfield, Fremantle
G: Gidgegannup, Girrawheen, Glen Forrest, Glendalough, Glengarry, Gnangara, Gosnells, Greenmount, Greenwood, Guildford, Gwelup
H: Hamersley, Hamilton Hill, Hammond Park, Harrisdale, Haynes, Hazelmere, Heathridge, Helena Valley, Henderson, Henley Brook, Herdsman, Herne Hill, High Wycombe, Highgate, Hilbert, Hillarys, Hilton, Hocking, Hovea, Huntingdale
I: Iluka, Inglewood, Innaloo, Jandabup, Jandakot, Jane Brook, Jindalee, Jolimont, Joondalup, Joondanna
K: Kallaroo, Karawara, Kardinya, Karragullen, Karrakatta, Karrinyup, Kelmscott, Kensington, Kenwick, Kewdale, Kiara, Kings Park, Kingsley, Kingsway, Kinross, Koondoola, Koongamia
L: Landsdale, Langford, Lathlain, Leederville, Leeming, Lexia, Lockridge, Lynwood
M: Maddington, Madeley, Mahogany Creek, Maida Vale, Malaga, Manning, Marangaroo, Mariginiup, Marmion, Martin, Maylands, Melaleuca, Melville, Menora, Merriwa, Middle Swan, Midland, Midvale, Millendon, Mindarie, Mirrabooka, Morangup, Morley, Mosman Park, Mount Claremont, Mount Hawthorn, Mount Lawley, Mount Nasura, Mount Pleasant, Mount Richon, Mullaloo, Munster, Murdoch, Myaree
N: Nedlands, Neerabup, Nollamara, Noranda, North Beach, North Coogee, North Fremantle, North Lake, North Perth, Northbridge, Nowergup
O: O'connor, Ocean Reef, Orange Grove, Osborne Park
P: Padbury, Palmyra, Parkerville, Parkwood, Pearsall, Peppermint Grove, Perth, Piara Waters, Pinjar, Queens Park, Quinns Rocks
R: Red Hill, Redcliffe, Ridgewood, Riverton, Rivervale, Roleystone, Rossmoyne, Rottnest Island
S: Salter Point, Samson, Sawyers Valley, Scarborough, Seville Grove, Shelley, Shenton Park, Sinagra, Sorrento, South Fremantle, South Guildford, South Lake, South Perth, Southern River, Spearwood, St James, Stirling, Stoneville, Stratton, Subiaco, Subiaco East, Success, Swan View, Swanbourne
T: Tamala Park, Tapping, The Vines, Thornlie, Treeby, Trigg, Tuart Hill
U: Upper Swan
V: Victoria Park
W: Wangara, Wanneroo, Warwick, Waterford, Watermans Bay, Wattle Grove, Wattleup, Welshpool, Wembley, Wembley Downs, West Leederville, West Perth, West Swan, Westfield, Westminster, White Gum Valley, Whiteman, Willagee, Willetton, Wilson, Winthrop, Woodbridge, Woodlands, Woodvale, Wungong
Y: Yangebup, Yokine​