Grief and Its Effects on the Nervous System

When we feel mistreated and attacked, the amygdala in conjunction with the pack organizes the sympathetic nervous system to push back. Unexpected unpleasant events induce parasympathetic tonic immobility, which is called shock. It's a way of preserving us when faced with overwhelming threats. Over time, over long durations of grieving, it can be a real threat to homeostasis in the body.