The loss of a loved one is a profound life event that changes everything. Despite common advice suggesting that people “move on” or “get over it,” grief is not something that can be simply overcome. In fact, one of the lesser-discussed aspects of grief is its connection to fear—fear of being forgotten or losing the memory of the loved one.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Arizona explored how sleep disruption interacts with the grieving process. Their research found that individuals who experience sleep problems after the loss of a loved one are more likely to develop “complicated grief.” This condition involves prolonged mourning, making it harder for individuals to process their grief and move through the healing process.
According to researcher Mary-Frances O’Connor, sleep problems are common after a loved one’s death due to the stress of the situation. However, the study also suggests that pre-existing sleep disturbances may increase the risk of developing complicated grief after a loss. This highlights the importance of sleep in emotional processing, as disrupted sleep can exacerbate the intensity and duration of grief.
The researchers followed participants in a Rotterdam Study for several years, gathering data on their mental health, emotional well-being, and sleep patterns. They found that people with persistent sleep troubles after a loss often struggled with complicated grief over the long term. In fact, those who reported sleep disturbances early on were more likely to experience complicated grief later, indicating a possible connection between poor sleep and prolonged mourning.
Sleep is critical for emotional processing and physical recovery. According to O’Connor, good sleep helps individuals process emotional events and restore their bodies, which is especially important during the stressful experience of grief. A lack of sleep may make it harder for individuals to cope, leaving them less prepared to handle the emotional challenges that arise each day.
Moving forward, the researchers hope healthcare providers will recognize the link between sleep and grief, offering support tailored to the specific needs of individuals dealing with loss. Understanding and addressing sleep disturbances in the context of grief could help those in mourning heal more effectively.
New Dimensions Can Help!
If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, insomnia, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, New Dimensions can help. New Dimensions offers Intensive Treatment Programs (PHP and IOP) for adolescents and adults who are struggling with mental health and/or substance abuse issues. We have programs located in The Woodlands, Katy, and the Clear Lake area of Houston, Texas. We also have online programs that are available to adults who reside within the State of Texas. To learn more about our programs for mental health issues and/or substance abuse contact us at 800-685-9796 or go to our website at www.nddtreatment.com.