Grief is how one reacts to a loss. A loss can range from employment, pets, status, a sense of safety, order, possessions, to the loss of the people nearest to us, and even to symbolic loss. All loss involves the absence of someone loved or something that fulfills a significant need in one’s life.

Grief may be experienced in the combination of mental, emotional, physical, or social reactions. Mental and emotional reactions can include anger, guilt, sadness, and despair. Physical reactions can include sleeping problems, changes in appetite, physical problems, or illness. Social reactions can include feelings about taking care of others in the family, role changes in the family, returning to work, or differences in social situations.