My current dealings with grief have reinforced the idea that emotions have a much bigger connection to the body than is easily visible. Grief has brought on a shortness of breath, full body aches, headaches, digestive issues, nausea, and chest pain. The headaches might be expected for sadness but the rest of the symptoms are only expected if a person knows of them from experience.

Physical signs of emotion are usually expected so show in the face and posture. That is where we look to each other for emotional tells. This is also where the most visible tells are. Tears, eye redness, a runny nose, and a red nose are very obvious signs of grief. A flushed face is also usually a tell of anger leaning emotions. The more invisible signs however often sneak up on the unacquainted. The more invisible ones are just as medically brought on. Different hormones flood the body and cause chaos. Everything from the heart to joint mobility can be affected based on the emotion and severity. Rarely emotions can even cause chronic conditions or even death. Something as intangible seeming as an emotion can cause very real pain.

If you end up in a very difficult position emotionally, take care of yourself. Put distance between yourself and whatever stressor caused it if you can. No amount of pain should be considered normal and that includes emotional pain. Find a trusted person to share whatever burden you are carrying with. Sometimes a person just needs a little help or a break. A break from the stress that can be anything from a hug to a warm cup of tea. Comfort in the presence of pain. If you are not the affected person but a friend, acquaintance, or family member, try to be that comfort. Give the kind of support you wish you could have. Though mind your own emotional stamina. No matter the situation everyone needs a break. It does not matter if the stress comes from your own situation or from other people. Take care of yourself and give yourself the chance to heal from any kind of emotional situation. Never wait until it hits critical if you know that it’s coming. Self care and therapy can save you from very real physical pain or even death. Be patient and let healing happen.