Finding Genius Podcast
Grief In The Body: How To Use Loss As An Opportunity For Healing
Feb 17, 2025
Mary Frances O'Connor, a Professor of Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Arizona, dives into the intricate relationship between grief and physical health. She reveals how intense grief can strain the cardiovascular system, especially in men, and discusses mindfulness techniques that can aid healing. The conversation also addresses the critical need for better support systems in the medical field for those navigating loss, highlighting the benefits of social connections and ongoing research in grief interventions.
27:19
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Quick takeaways
- Grief significantly impacts physical health, elevating heart rate and blood pressure, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
- Integrating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into grief support can improve well-being and potentially enhance health outcomes for the bereaved.
Deep dives
Understanding Grief Through Body Responses
Grieving affects not only emotional but also physical health, as observed through physiological changes in people experiencing grief. Research shows that during intense waves of grief, there are measurable increases in heart rate and blood pressure, sometimes akin to moderate exercise, highlighting the body's stress response. Individuals who experience higher intensity grief display more significant increases in vital signs, correlating with an amplified risk for severe cardiovascular events. This heightened reactivity during grief underpins the importance of recognizing these physical manifestations to provide better support for those in mourning.
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