What happens in our brain when we grieve — and how it helps us stay afloat

Psychologist Mary-Frances O'Connor, author of "The Grieving Brain," shares insights on how our brains process grief as a learning and healing opportunity. She discusses the emotional chaos of loss, using vivid analogies to articulate the feelings that arise. O'Connor explains how grief affects identity and contrasts normal grieving with prolonged grief disorder. She also addresses the unique challenges faced by those mourning during the COVID-19 pandemic, connecting personal loss to broader historical experiences.