Emotional Labeling

The following responses may or may not occur as a grief reaction. This is not meant to be a complete list; other reactions may occur that are quite normal. Emotional reactions and their somatic or physical counterpart often occur in "waves" lasting a varied period of time.

Emotional responses may include: sadness, anger, anxiety, numbness and helplessness. Somatic or physical responses may include: tightness in the throat, shortness of breath, headaches and dry mouth. Behavioral responses could include: crying at unexpected time, hostile reactions to those offering help or solace and restlessness. Cognitive responses include: hallucinations, nightmares, slowed thinking, disorientation and delusions.

Anxiety is a given in any crisis. Because there are no answers and seemingly no resolution, people become afraid of what hasn't happened yet or what they fear might happen.

This projecting into an unsure future is a normal, natural response to crisis. The anxiety also acts as a motivator, to find options, solace and resolution. Sometimes anxiety can be experienced as a free-floating fear or panic.